Dhammika Niroshana, a former cricketer, was shot dead in Ambalangoda. Read about his cricket career, personal life, and the ongoing investigation into his murder.
Introduction
Former Sri Lankan cricketer Dhammika Niroshana‘s life was tragically cut short on July 16, 2024. He was shot dead near his residence in Ambalangoda, shocking the cricketing community and his hometown. This article delves into his life, career, and the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Early Years
Dhammika Niroshana, affectionately known as Jonty, was born on February 22, 1983, in Galle, Sri Lanka. He grew up in a close-knit community and showed early promise in sports, particularly cricket.
Education
Niroshana attended Sri Devananda College in Ambalangoda, where he honed his cricketing skills. His dedication and talent soon made him a standout player in the school’s cricket team.
Cricketing Career
Debut and Early Career
Niroshana made his debut for the Sri Lanka Under-19 team against Singapore in 2000. Over the next two years, he played both Under-19 Test and ODI cricket, even captaining the side on ten occasions.
First-Class and Domestic Career
After his stint with the Under-19s, Niroshana moved on to senior First-class cricket. He played for the Sri Lanka Schools XI, Chilaw Marians Cricket Club, and Galle Cricket Club. His bowling prowess was evident, maintaining a healthy average of under 30 across First-class, List A, and Under-19 formats.
Teams and Achievements
- Chilaw Marians Cricket Club
- Galle Cricket Club
- Singha Sports Club
- Sri Lanka Under-19s
Niroshana’s performance on the field was marked by his ability to take crucial wickets and contribute useful runs, making him a valuable all-rounder for his teams.
Personal Life
Family and Personal Interests
Niroshana was a family man, often seen spending time with his wife and two children. He was also known for his community involvement and his efforts to mentor young cricketers in Ambalangoda.
The Tragic Incident
Details of the Shooting
On the evening of July 16, 2024, Dhammika Niroshana was shot in the head near his residence at Kande Mawatha, Ambalangoda. The police reported that he was with his family when an unidentified assailant opened fire.
Investigation and Reactions
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the police are still investigating. The incident has left the community in shock, with many expressing their condolences and calling for justice.
Legacy and Impact
Contributions to Cricket
Niroshana’s contributions to Sri Lankan cricket, especially at the youth level, are remembered fondly. He played a crucial role in nurturing future stars like Farveez Maharoof, Angelo Mathews, and Upul Tharanga.
Community Impact
Beyond cricket, Niroshana’s involvement in his community and his efforts to inspire young athletes have left a lasting impact.
Conclusion
The untimely death of Dhammika Niroshana is a tragic loss for his family, friends, and the cricketing community. His legacy as a cricketer and mentor will continue to inspire future generations.
updated -2024-07-17 21:42
Revealed: Reasons Behind the Murder of Former Sri Lankan Cricketer Dhammika Niroshana
Former Sri Lankan cricketer Dhammika Niroshana, also known as “Jonty,” was tragically shot dead on the night of July 16, 2024. The incident occurred around 9:30 PM in front of his house in the Bogahawatta, Kanda Mawatha area of Ambalangoda.
The assailant used a 12-bore firearm, targeting Niroshana as he stepped out of his house to attend a nearby funeral ceremony. The shot struck him in the head, causing his immediate death. Reports indicate that the shooter fired from a deserted piece of land near the house and fled the scene on foot.
Dhammika Niroshana, a 41-year-old father of two, was well-known for captaining the Sri Lanka Under-19 cricket team in 2002. According to police, he had been abroad recently and was planning to travel again soon.
The tragic event unfolded when a local resident alerted Niroshana about a suspicious person in the nearby deserted land. Police suspect that the murder may have stemmed from a dispute between Niroshana and an individual who operates gambling halls at funerals in the area. They also mentioned that Niroshana had received threats to his life prior to this incident.
The community and cricketing world mourn the loss of Dhammika Niroshana, whose contributions to Sri Lankan cricket and mentorship of young athletes will be remembered. The police continue to investigate the case to bring the perpetrator to justice.