Experienced middle-order batter and all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva has formally resigned as the captain of Sri Lanka’s national Test team. In an official letter submitted to the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Selection Committee, the 35-year-old veteran announced his decision to relinquish the captaincy. However, he confirmed that he will remain actively available for selection as a player in red-ball cricket.
De Silva has captained Sri Lanka in 18 Test matches since succeeding Dimuth Karunaratne in January 2024.
Key highlights of Dhananjaya de Silva’s tenure and tenure exit include:
Passing the Baton to Next Generation: In his letter to the selection panel, De Silva stated: “It is my personal view that the leadership of the Sri Lanka Test side should now be handed over to a deserving player from the next generation.”
Captaincy Performance Profile: Under his leadership across 18 Tests, Sri Lanka achieved 7 victories, 8 defeats, and 3 draws. His captaincy highlights include series wins against Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand.
All-Round Contributions: As skipper, De Silva accumulated 1,130 runs at an average of 36.45, highlighted by twin centuries in a single Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet that secured a historic 328-run victory. He also claimed 9 wickets with the ball.
SLC Acknowledgment: Ashley de Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Sri Lanka Cricket, expressed gratitude: “Sri Lanka Cricket extends its heartfelt thanks to Dhananjaya de Silva for his leadership and service as Test captain, and we wish him continued success for the remainder of his playing career.”
