Former Sri Lankan cricket captain Lahiru Thirimanne was involved in a near-fatal car accident near Anuradhapura, a city in the north-central part of Sri Lanka. Thirimanne was hospitalized at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital immediately after the accident, where he was reported to be in stable condition.
The collision, described as serious, occurred when the vehicle carrying Thirimanne crashed head-on with a lorry traveling in the opposite direction. At the time of the accident, Thirimanne, who had retired from international cricket in July 2023 after announcing his migration to Australia, was on a pilgrimage.
“We wish to inform you that Lahiru Thirimanne and his family were involved in a small car accident while visiting the temple. Thankfully, they have been admitted to the hospital for observation.
“Fortunately, following a thorough medical assessment, we can confirm that they are all safe and sound, with no cause for concern. We appreciate the outpouring of concern and support from everyone during this time. We kindly request respect for their privacy as they recover,” read the statement.
Thirimanne’s cricket career was notable, having played for Sri Lanka across all formats. He made his international debut in 2010 and went on to play 44 Tests, 127 ODIs, and 26 T20Is. His career highlights include participating in three T20 World Cups, contributing to Sri Lanka’s victory in the 2014 edition, and competing in two ODI World Cups. Additionally, he captained the Sri Lankan team in five one-day matches, with his final international appearance occurring in March 2022.
Lahiru Thirimanne, known for his unflappable temperament and exquisite cover drive, was highly regarded within the Sri Lankan cricket community. His skills on the field, leadership qualities, and contributions to the team have left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan cricket. As news of his accident spread, fans and fellow cricketers alike have been sending their well-wishes, hoping for a swift and full recovery for the former captain.
