Sri Lanka’s veteran opener Dimuth Karunaratne has announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking his 100th Test match against Australia in Galle as his final appearance in the longest format. The experienced left-hander, who debuted at the same venue in 2012, will step away after an illustrious 12-year career.

Reasons Behind the Decision

Karunaratne’s retirement is influenced by three key factors:

• Sri Lanka’s limited Test schedule, with only two matches scheduled until May 2026.
• A dip in form, averaging 27.05 since 2024.
• The end of the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, making it an ideal time to transition younger players into the squad.

“It felt like the right time to step away, especially with a few young players ready for the next WTC cycle. Finishing in Galle, where I started my career, makes it even more special,”

Karunaratne shared.

A Legacy in Sri Lankan Cricket

Karunaratne will become Sri Lanka’s seventh cricketer to achieve 100 Test appearances, joining legends such as Sanath Jayasuriya, Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas, Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, and Angelo Mathews.

With over 7,000 Test runs at an average close to 40, he remains Sri Lanka’s highest-scoring opener in Test history. His career highlights include:

• 16 Test centuries & 39 half-centuries
• 244 – Career-best score
• 30 Tests as captain, leading Sri Lanka to a historic 2-0 Test series win in South Africa (2019)
• Played 50 ODIs, including leading Sri Lanka in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup

What’s Next for Karunaratne?

Now residing in Melbourne, Karunaratne has expressed interest in coaching after a break from cricket. “I’d love to get involved again in the game,” he stated, hinting at a future role in cricket development.

As Sri Lanka prepares to face Australia in the second Test, Karunaratne’s farewell at Galle International Stadium will be an emotional moment for Sri Lankan cricket fans.

The much-anticipated 14th Battle of the Hindus Inter-School Big Match between Hindu College, Jaffna, and Hindu College, Colombo, is set to take place on February 7-8 at the Hindu College Grounds in Jaffna. This historic encounter, which first began in 1982, continues to celebrate the rich cricketing legacy and camaraderie between these two prestigious institutions.

Sponsors and Legacy

The 2025 edition is proudly sponsored by Janashakthi Group (title sponsor) and SLIIT Northern University (platinum sponsor), further elevating the significance of the event. Over the years, both schools have demonstrated remarkable performances, securing three wins each, while seven matches ended in draws.

A Tradition of Excellence

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, Hindu College, Jaffna Principal, Ratnam Senthilmaran, highlighted the immense contributions of both schools in shaping influential figures in academics, sports, and various professional fields.

Meanwhile, Hindu College, Colombo Principal, K. Nagenthra, emphasized that this annual fixture represents more than just cricket—it is a symbol of brotherhood, sportsmanship, and shared cultural heritage, uniting Hinduites across generations.

Excitement Builds for the 2025 Edition

With the stage set for another thrilling chapter in this historic rivalry, cricket fans can expect a fiercely competitive match filled with passion and pride. Stay tuned for all the latest updates on Sri Lankan Sports TV!

📲 Follow us for more updates: https://srilankansportstv.com

Aston Villa have strengthened their squad with the signing of Spanish midfielder Marco Asensio on a loan deal from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) until the end of the season. The 29-year-old, who previously won three UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid, becomes Villa’s fourth signing of the winter transfer window.

Key Details of the Transfer:

• Club: Aston Villa (Loan)
• Previous Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
• Contract Duration: Until the end of the 2024 season
• Option to Buy: No
• Wages: Fully covered by Aston Villa

Asensio’s Career and Achievements

Since joining PSG in the summer of 2023, Asensio has netted seven goals in 47 appearances. Despite helping the club win Ligue 1 last season, he has struggled for regular game time this term, making just eight league starts. On the international stage, he was a part of Spain’s Nations League-winning squad in 2023.

Aston Villa’s Busy Transfer Window

Villa have been highly active in the January transfer market, completing deals for:

Marcus Rashford (Loan from Manchester United with a £40m buy option)

Donyell Malen (Signed from Borussia Dortmund for £19m)

Andres Garcia (Signed from Levante for £6m plus add-ons)

Additionally, the club offloaded striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr for £71m and defender Diego Carlos to Fenerbahce for £8.45m. They also loaned young winger Samuel Iling-Junior to Middlesbrough for the remainder of the season.

Asensio’s Expected Debut

The Spanish midfielder could make his Aston Villa debut against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday (17:35 GMT), a match that will be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer. Villa, currently eighth in the Premier League, are also preparing for their upcoming Champions League Round of 16 tie.