On Tuesday, Veteran Sri Lanka opener Upul Tharanga declared his retirement from international cricket after a career spanning 15 years during which he also got chance to enjoy a brief stint as captain.
Tharanga, who was at the control from July to November in 2017, last represented the national squad during its tour to South Africa in 2019.
‘I have decided to retire from international cricket’, Tharanga wrote on his Twitter handle.
He has played 31 Tests for Sri Lanka, scoring 1754 runs at an average of 21.89.
In December 2005, Tharanga made his Test debut against India in Ahmedabad and played his last match too against India in Pallekele in 2017.
Tharanga enjoyed more success in the ODIs, making 6951 runs at an average of 33.74 in the 235 matches he played since his debut against West Indies in August 2005. He has also played 26 T20Is for Sri Lanka, scoring 407 runs with a best of 47.
He shared a heartfelt note beneath the hard news, thanking everyone who supported him on his journey to become a successful cricketer.
‘As the good old saying goes ‘All good things must come to an end’, I believe it is time for me to say goodbye to my international cricket career after over 15 years of giving the game to my all. ‘I leave behind a road travelled with fond memories and great friendships. I’m thankful to Sri Lanka Cricket for always having faith and the trust in me. ‘ I am thankful to the many cricket loving fans, friends and family for standing by me during my highest of highs and even at my lowest parts of my career.