Cricket: Suranga Lakmal retires from international stage

Former Sri Lanka Test captain Suranga Lakmal has informed Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) that he will retire from all forms of international cricket following the completion of the upcoming Sri Lanka Tour of India 2022.

"I'm indebted to SLC 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, has said in his retirement letter submitted to SLC, stated.

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

Suranga Lakmal played for Sri Lanka across all international formats, making valuable contributions to the betterment of 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 Ashley de Silva, CEO of SLC.

"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.

Lakmal, 34, debuted for Sri Lanka in an ODI game against India on December 18, 2009 and made his Test debut on November 23, 2010.

He played 66 Tests and claimed 167 wickets at an average of 36.31 with the best of 5 for 47 and turned out in 87 ODIs claiming 107 wickets. 

He also played 11 T20 internationals and ends up with eight victims.