Jayananda Warnaweera, Ex-Test Cricketer and Galle Curator, Passes Away

3 days ago|Sports · Cricket

COLOMBO – Former Sri Lanka Test cricketer and prominent figure in domestic cricket, Jayananda Warnaweera, has passed away at the age of 64.

Warnaweera, a right-arm off-break bowler who also contributed with medium-pace early in his career, represented Sri Lanka in 10 Test matches and 6 One Day Internationals (ODIs) between 1986 and 1994.

A Career of Highs and Lows

Born in Matara, Warnaweera made his Test debut against Pakistan in Kandy in 1986. While his international career saw limited opportunities, his impact on the domestic circuit was immense.

He was a prolific wicket-taker in first-class cricket, achieving remarkable success, including a memorable season in 1990 where he topped the wicket charts with 71 wickets at a stunning average of just 13.47. He was a key figure in Sri Lanka’s first Test victory over England in 1993, where he played a significant role by taking 8 wickets in the match.

Post-Retirement and Controversy

After retiring from international play, Warnaweera remained closely connected to the game, becoming the long-serving Chief Curator of the iconic Galle International Cricket Stadium. Under his guidance, the venue became known for its spin-friendly pitches, often giving the home team a significant advantage.

However, his later years were marred by controversy. In 2016, the International Cricket Council (ICC) imposed a three-year ban on him for failing to cooperate with the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) during an investigation.

Jayananda Warnaweera leaves behind a complex legacy in Sri Lankan cricket, remembered both for his on-field grit and his later involvement in administrative controversy.

Headlines

Former Sri Lanka Test Bowler Jayananda Warnaweera Dies at 64
Jayananda Warnaweera, Ex-Test Cricketer and Galle Curator, Passes Away
Cricket World Mourns: Former Sri Lanka International Jayananda Warnaweera Dead at 64

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Saddened to hear about the passing of former Sri Lanka Test cricketer, Jayananda Warnaweera, at the age of 64.

Warnaweera played 10 Tests & 6 ODIs (1986-94) and was the long-time curator of the Galle International Stadium. #LKA #SLCricket #Cricket #JayanandaWarnaweera