Sri Lanka’s Suranga Lakmal to retire from international cricket after India tour

Sri Lanka fast bowler Suranga Lakmal will retire from international cricket after their upcoming tour of India, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement. SLC said that Lakmal has informed the board of his decision.

Lakmal made his debut in an ODI against India in December 2009. He has taken 168 wickets in 68 Test matches and 109 in 86 ODIs. The 34-year-old played only 11 T20Is, taking eight wickets.

“I’m indebted to Sri Lanka Cricket for giving me this astonishing opportunity and having faith in me to bring back my mother land honour as it has been absolute pleasure to be associated with the board that shaped my professional life and also enriched my personal development,” Lakmal is quoted as saying by SLC in a retirement letter that he sent to the board.

“I have nothing but the utmost respect for all my players, coaches, team managers, support staff, administrative staff and all other supportive staff,” he further said.

“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 SLC CEO Ashley 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,” added De Silva.

Sri Lanka are scheduled to play two Tests and three T20Is in the tour which starts on February 25. The first Test will be played from February 25 in Bengaluru and from March 5 in Mohali. Mohali will also then host the first T20I on March 13 after which the second T20I will be played in Dharamsala. The tour ends with the third T20I in Lucknow on March 18.