Guwahati News Desk: Sri Lanka’s first-ever Test cricket captain, Bandula Warnapura, breathed his last at a city hospital on Monday.
As per the sources, the 68-year-old Warnapura had his right leg amputated earlier this month after being diagnosed with high sugar levels, which further hindered his blood circulation.
Offering condolences on the news of Warnapura’s demise, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Chief Shammi Silva said, “I am deeply saddened by the demise of Bandula Warnapura, who was Sri Lanka’s First Test Captain.”
He added, “He was an excellent cricketer, administrator, coach, commentator, and above all, a good person, and his passing away is a huge loss for the cricketing community.”
The Chief concluded by saying, “However, I am sure his name and deeds will remain in our hearts forever. May he attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana.”
Regarding Warnapura, he was a sentimental hero of Sri Lankan cricket, who represented his country in four Tests and 12 ODIs between 1975 to 1982.
Not only did he lead the Sri Lankan side in its maiden Test match held in February 1982, against England, but he also faced the first ball and scored the first run for the island nation. He also achieved the rare record of opening the batting and opening the bowling (second innings) in the same game.
In addition, he was not only an opening batsman with a solid technique, but was also a capable medium-pace bowler.
However, he was handed a life ban from Sri Lankan cricket after he decided to tour apartheid South Africa with a rebel team in 1982-83.
Furthermore, he later served as the national team’s coach as well as an administrator at Sri Lanka Cricket.