Former Sri Lanka U-19 cricketer Dhammika Niroshan tragically lost his life on Wednesday when he was shot outside his home in Ambalangoda, Galle. The 41-year-old was attacked by an unknown assailant, leaving behind his wife and children, who were present during the incident.
Authorities in Sri Lanka are currently conducting investigations to apprehend the shooter responsible for the crime. The shooting, which was carried out using a 12-bore firearm, is believed to be related to gang rivalry, according to Sri Lanka Police spokesperson Nihal Thalduwa. Niroshan had recently returned to Sri Lanka after fleeing the country following the murder of his close friend Dasun Manawadu in Ambalangoda.
There is speculation that Niroshan's death may be linked to the 2016 assassination of former First-Class cricketer H. Premasiri in the same area. Premasiri, who was the president of the Galle District Cricket Association, was also shot near his home.
Niroshan, who captained the national Under-19 team during the 2002 World Cup in New Zealand, showed promise as a talented cricketer. Despite retiring at the age of 21, he made appearances in First-Class matches for various teams, showcasing his skills as a right-arm fast bowler and a right-hand batsman. His final game was for Galle Cricket Club in December 2004.