Arjuna Ranatunga’s weight transformation leaves fans stunned as Sri Lankan legends re-unite

Sri Lankan cricket legends Sanath Jayasuriya, Aravinda de Silva, Arjuna Ranatunga, and Muttiah Muralitharan, who dominated world cricket in the 1990s and were part of the iconic 1996 World Cup-winning team, recently reunited at the Tamil Union’s 125th anniversary celebrations. While the four stalwarts appeared in high spirits, it was Ranatunga’s striking transformation that captured everyone’s attention.

Dressed in a red kurta, Ranatunga appeared slimmer and almost unrecognizable compared to his playing days. During his 18-year international career, he was known for his stocky build, which never affected his performance. He scored nearly 12,500 runs across Tests and ODIs, and occasionally attracted controversy, including a famous incident where ex-Australian captain Ian Healy confronted him over his request for a runner due to fitness issues.

Alongside Pakistan great Inzamam-Ul-Haq, Ranatunga was never the most athletically built batter, but his recent weight loss has sparked widespread attention. Fans expressed astonishment at the transformation, some questioning his health, while others jokingly asked artificial intelligence (AI) to confirm his identity. Although he has not disclosed the reason behind the change, it appears to reflect a dedicated fitness journey rather than a health concern.

A look at Arjuna Ranataunga’s cricket career

Ranatunga remains Sri Lanka’s most successful ODI captain, with 89 wins in 193 matches over 11 years. He also led the team in 56 Tests, winning 12, making him the country’s joint fourth-most successful Test captain. Debuting at 18, he played 93 Tests and 269 ODIs, but it was his leadership that defined his legacy. He was known for fiercely supporting his players, famously walking off after umpire Ross Emerson no-balled Muralitharan for ‘chucking’ against Australia at the Adelaide Oval.

Even today, Ranatunga’s presence commands respect. His remarkable transformation, combined with his legendary achievements, ensures that he remains an enduring icon of Sri Lankan cricket.