Former Sri Lanka U-19 captain Dhammika Niroshana was shot dead near his home in Ambalangoda on Tuesday evening. Local media reported that Niroshana was with his wife and two children when an unidentified person opened fire. The 41-year-old ex-crick was attacked by an unidentified person using a 12 bores firearm. Police suspect that the murder is linked to an underground gang rivalry.
Sri Lankan police are investigating the incident. Police spokesperson Nihal Thalduwa said: “Investigations are underway to arrest the suspect involved in the shooting which appears to be due to gang rivalry. Niroshana returned to Sri Lanka three months ago after fleeing the country when her close friend, Dasun Manawatu, was killed in the same area.
Possible connections
The police are also probing a possible link between Niroshana’s death and the 2016 murder of H. Premasiri, a former cricketer and former South Region cricket coach. Premasiri was shot dead near his residence, and his killing is suspected to be linked to an international match-fixing racket involving matches at the Galle International Cricket Stadium.
Based on underground activities in Galle
Galle is known for its clandestine activities and gang-related murders, as well as many related to cricket. Circumstances add to the complexity of the investigation into Niroshana’s murder.
Niroshana cricket career
Niroshana made his debut for the Sri Lanka U19 team in 2000. He was playing under-19 Test and ODI cricket for two years. A fast bowler who can also contribute with the bat. He has maintained a bowling average of under 30 in first-class, List A, and U-19 cricket. Although he did not make the national team, he played alongside future stars like Angelo Mathews, Upul Tharanga, and Farveez Maharoof at the U-19 level.
He played 12 first in 8 List A matches for Galle Cricket Club between 2001 and 2004, scoring over 300 runs and taking 19 wickets.
