OTD | Arjuna Ranatunga’s 28 not out in his final Test helped Sri Lanka draw the match and the series against South Africa

Arjuna Ranatunga is remembered in cricket history as one of the greatest captains of Sri Lanka. The Colombo cricketer, who led the island nation to victory in the 1996 World Cup, is known for his aggressive and innovative mindset. However, Ranatunga was also a prolific batter for his side, and his captaincy might have overshadowed that fact. 

Ranatunga made his debut in Sri Lanka’s first Test at the age of 18. Primarily a left-handed batsman, the legendary cricketer also contributed his right-arm medium-pace deliveries. Before hanging up his boots in 2001, the Lankan legend amassed 5105 runs in 93 Tests and 7456 runs in 269 ODIs. He has eight centuries and 87 fifties to his credit across two formats. 

The 60-year-old played his final Test match against South Africa at his home ground in Colombo. Although there was no heroism from him in the farewell match, his contribution was vital in the third and final match of the series ending in a draw. 

Invited to bat first, South Africa scored 279 in the first innings on the back of Lance Klusener’s unbeaten 95. Chaminda Vaas and Muthiah Muralidaran shone from the Lankan bowling attack with four and three wickets, respectively.  In reply, captain Sanath Jayasuriya led his team from the front with an 85-run knock, but they could only reach 258. 

South Africa added 241 more runs to their tally before declaring with just one wicket in their hand. Muthiah Muralidaran once again unleashed his spin magic to pick up a fifer. Sri Lanka had to chase down a target of 263 and they got off to a worst possible start. 

They were reduced to 3-37 and appeared to be in dire straits. However, Mahela Jayawardene took the responsibility on his shoulders and led the fight for his team. He blasted a magnificent ton. A victory slowly disappeared from the hosts but they tried to end the game in a draw. Jayawardene (101) was well supported by former captain Ranatunga who remained unbeaten on 28 off 42 balls. Sri Lanka finished with 195/4 and both the match and series ended in a draw.