Dhammika Niroshana led Sri Lanka in the 2002 Under-19 World Cup. (Chris Skelton/Photosport)
Former Sri Lanka U-19 cricketer Dhammika Niroshan was shot dead outside his home by an unidentified assailant in Ambalangoda in Galle on Wednesday. He was 41.
Sri Lankan Police have said that investigations are underway to apprehend the shooter. Local media reports suggest that Niroshana’s wife and two children were along with him at their home when the incident occurred. Reports also suggested that the shooter used a 12-bore rifle to commit the crime.
Niroshana was considered to be a promising talent in Sri Lanka’s age-group system in the early 2000s. He made his Under-19 debut for Sri Lanka in 2000 and went onto lead the side in a handful of games. However, he opted to retire at the age of 21.
Captaining Sri Lanka
Niroshana, a right-arm fast bowler and a handy right-hand batter, led Sri Lanka in the 2002 Under-19 World Cup. The team comprised several future international stars, including Farveez Maharoof, Jeevan Mendis, Dhammika Prasad and Upul Tharanga. Niroshana picked up seven wickets in five innings in the tournament, averaging 19.28 with a best of 3/38.
Niroshan made his First-Class debut in the 2001-02 season. He featured in 12 FC matches for teams such as Galle CC, Singha SC and Chilaw Marians, picking up 19 wickets across three years. His last professional game was for Galle Cricket Club in December 2004.
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