dimuth-karunaratne

Dimuth Karunaratne, Sri Lanka's Test opener, has etched his name into the record books by surpassing legendary cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya in the list of Sri Lanka's leading run-scorers in Test cricket. With this achievement, Karunaratne now stands as the fourth-highest run-getter for Sri Lanka in the longest format of the game, trailing only behind legendary players Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, and Angelo Mathews.

Dimuth Karunaratne, who has been a mainstay in Sri Lanka's Test lineup since his debut in 2012, achieved this milestone on the fourth day of the ongoing Test match. His consistent performances have cemented his place among the greats of Sri Lankan cricket. With a total of 6,979 runs at an average of 41.05, including 16 centuries and 37 half-centuries, Karunaratne's contribution to Sri Lanka's Test cricket is undeniable.

Here’s a look at the most run-scorers for Sri Lanka in Test cricket:

1. Kumar Sangakkara: 12,400 runs in 134 Tests (Average: 57.40, Centuries: 38, Fifties: 52)

2. Mahela Jayawardene: 11,814 runs in 149 Tests (Average: 49.84, Centuries: 34, Fifties: 50)

3. Angelo Mathews: 7,700 runs in 111 Tests (Average: 45.29, Centuries: 16, Fifties: 42)

4. Dimuth Karunaratne: 6,979 runs in 93 Tests (Average: 41.05, Centuries: 16, Fifties: 37)

5. Sanath Jayasuriya: 6,973 runs in 110 Tests (Average: 40.07, Centuries: 14, Fifties: 31)

Furthermore Former England captain Michael Vaughan has voiced his opinion on Karunaratne’s recent form and playing style.

“Dimuth Karunaratne is just hanging in for survival. He needs to start being more positive, even in defence, because at the moment he's just hanging back,” Vaughan commented on BBC Test Match Special. He further advised, “As a batter, you've got to find a way of counter-punching when you are under such pressure. Karunaratne has missed a few pull shots, I'm not sure you can trust the bounce completely onthis pitch.” he added.