Former Sri Lanka cricketer and U-19 captain, Dhammika Niroshana was shot dead in front of his family on Tuesday, July 16. The former cricketer, who resided in Ambalangoda in Sri Lanka was with his family, which included his wife and two children at the time of the tragic incident.
Notably, an unidentified assailant fired shots at him, however, the motive behind the attack and the identity of the person are currently unknown. According to the Sri Lanka Police, the investigations are underway to identity the culprit. The law enforcement agencies have also been put to work to conduct thorough investigation in the matter.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) also took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce his tragic demise. “Former U-19 cricketer Dhammika Niroshan, also knowns as ‘Jonty’ (41) shot dead in front of his residence in the area of Kandewattee in Ambalangoda last night says Police Media Spokesperson,” SLC captioned the post.
The late 41-year-old, who is now survived by his wife and two children, has had a notable career for Sri Lanka Cricket. Niroshana was part of Sri Lanka’s age group sides making his Under-19 debut in 2000 and then went up to lead the side in the U19 in 2002. During his brief cricketing career, he also represented Chilaw Marians Cricket Club, Galle Cricket Club and Singha Sports Club in Sri Lanka. He also played in 12 First Class matches, amassing over 200 runs and taking 19 wickets.