Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal to retire from international cricket after India tour

Veteran Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal has decided to bring curtains to his international career. The tour of India, which comprises of two Tests and three T20Is, in February-March 2022 would be the fast bowler’s last assignment in national colours. The 34-year-old submitted a letter to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Wednesday (2 February), confirming his decision to retire. He also thanked the board for their support throughout his career.

Making his international debut in December 2009, Suranga didn’t really burst onto the scenes straightway. He instead took some time to cement his place in the team. The tall fast bowler doesn’t rely on the pace a lot but possesses the ability to swing the ball off the deck. Accuracy has also been one of the pacer’s key strengths. Using these abilities, Lakmal troubled many potent batters worldwide.

I am indebted to Sri Lanka Cricket for giving me the opportunity: Suranga Lakmal

As far as his numbers are concerned, Lakmal has so far represented Sri Lanka in 68 Tests, 85 ODIs, and 11 T20Is, scalping 285 wickets across formats at an average of 34.94. He was also a part of the Sri Lanka squad that won the 2014 T20 World Cup. It must be noted that Lakmal also handled the reins of the Test team during his tenure. Meanwhile, Lakmal, in his retirement letter, thanked the national board for showcasing faith in him.

“I’m indebted to Sri Lanka Cricket for giving me this astonishing opportunity and having faith in me to bring back my motherland honour as it has been absolute pleasure to be associated with the board that shaped my professional life and also enriched my personal development,” said Lakmal in his letter.

“I have nothing but the utmost respect for all my players, coaches, team managers, support staff, administrative staff and all other supportive staff,” he added. Meanwhile, Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, also thanked the pacer for his contribution towards the national team.

“We take this opportunity to wish Lakmal the very best for his future endeavors, and looking forward to seeing him perform for the country during the Sri Lanka Tour of India, if the selectors consider him for the tour,” said De Silva.

“Lakmal has been an excellent contributor for Sri Lanka Cricket and delivered some memorable spells during his national career, and his services will be remembered well,’’ he added.