Dimuth to step down from Test captaincy after Ireland series

Tuesday, 21 March 2023 02:12 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Dimuth Karunaratne

Dimuth Karunaratne has indicated to the national selectors that he wants to step down from the Sri Lanka Test captaincy after the two-Test series against Ireland next month. Karunaratne said that he had spoken to the selectors regarding this decision, but has so far not heard from them.

“The next circle of the ICC Test Championship is for two years and I think it is better for a new captain to take over and begin from the new circle rather than me doing part of it and then stepping down midway,” said Karunaratne at the end of the two-Test series in New Zealand which Sri Lanka lost 0-2.

“I have discussed this decision with the national selectors but I have not received a proper confirmation from them yet,” said the 35-year-old left-handed opener who has led his country in 26 of the 84 Test matches he has played for his country since 2012, winning 10 and losing 10 with six draws.