Sri Lanka’s first Test captain Bandula Warnapura passes away

Colombo: Bandula Warnapura, who led Sri Lanka in their maiden Test, passed away on Monday (October 18) while receiving treatment in a private hospital. He was 68.

Bandula Warnapura played four Tests and 12 ODIs for his country. 

"Sri Lanka Cricket is deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Bandula Warnapura, Sri Lanka's first Test captain," the release said. "We wish to express our condolences to the family at this difficult time on behalf of Sri Lanka's cricketing fraternity," the release added.

It’s Sad to hear the news of SL first test captain Bandula Warnapura’s demise after a brief illness. Thoughts are with his wife and children.. He coached me at Nalanda and was a steady influence in my growth as a cricketer and a person. May you attain Nibbana Sir !!! 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/muIfBO14cZ

— Mahela Jayawardena (@MahelaJay) October 18, 2021

The turning point of his first-class career came during the 1973-74 season when he compiled 154 against Pakistan Under-25. 

He made his ODI debut in the 1975 World Cup game against the West Indies at Old Trafford.  

Moreover, Warnapura notched up his highest ODI score of 77 versus Pakistan in the 1981-82 season but it went in vain as Sri Lanka slipped to an eight-wicket loss.  

He went on to captain Sri Lanka in their first-ever Test versus England in Colombo in 1982. 

He faced Sri Lanka's first delivery and scored their first run in Test cricket. In that game, he also achieved the rare record of opening the batting and opening the bowling (second innings) in the same Test match. 

After retiring, he served as the coach of the Sri Lankan set-up and then went on to become the Director of Coaching.