Summary Dhananjaya de Silva has stepped down as Sri Lanka's Test captain ahead of the Pakistan series, ending an 18-match stint while remaining available to play for the national team.
(Web Desk) – Dhananjaya de Silva has relinquished the Sri Lanka Test captaincy with immediate effect ahead of the Pakistan series.
De Silva, who took charge of the Test side in January 2024 after succeeding Dimuth Karunaratne, said he believed the leadership role should now be passed on to a younger generation.
In a letter sent to Sri Lanka’s selection committee, the all-rounder explained that he felt the time was right for a new player to take responsibility for leading the Test team.
Despite leaving the captaincy, de Silva confirmed that he remains available for selection as a player and intends to continue representing Sri Lanka.
During his tenure, de Silva led the national side in 18 Test matches, with Sri Lanka recording seven victories under his leadership.
He made a significant contribution with both bat and ball during his captaincy. De Silva accumulated 1,130 runs at an average of 36.45 and also claimed nine wickets, averaging 44.44 with the ball.
Sri Lanka Cricket chief executive Ashley de Silva praised the outgoing captain for his service to the Test team and expressed his best wishes for the remainder of his playing career.
