Roshan Mahanama to quit umpiring career

Dubai, Sep 15 - The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday that Roshan Mahanama will step down from the elite panel of match referees at the end of the year.

Mahanama joined the elite panel in 2004 and has officiated in 58 Tests, 222 ODIs and 35 T20 Internationals, including three World Cups and the ICC Champions Trophy 2009. 

He took the decision to step down six months ahead of the expiry of his contract so that he can spend more time with his family and also focus on the development of his business activities in Sri Lanka.

"This has been an extremely difficult decision as I am very passionate about cricket, which has been an integral part of my life for over 40 years as a cricketer, coach and ICC match referee.

"However, in life a time comes when one has to keep moving forward based on obligations and priorities. My time has come to devote an uninterrupted focus and attention to my family, who made massive sacrifices over the years to enable me to pursue my career for over three decades," the 49-year-old was quoted as saying in an ICC statement.

"The journey for almost 12 years as an ICC match referee has been amazing and something for me to reflect upon with pride and satisfaction. I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with some outstanding professionals, refereed at some great matches and visited some incredible places along the way.

"I would like to thank the ICC and Sri Lanka Cricket for affording me the opportunity to be involved in almost 600 internationals of the game I so passionately love!" he added.

"I can never forget to record my appreciation of the support and assistance offered to me by all my former and current colleagues. A big bouquet to all the ICC staff and Members for the kind courtesies extended. It has been nothing less than a privilege and a pleasure to work with such a wonderful group of human beings over the years."

As a cricketer, Mahanama represented Sri Lanka in 52 Tests and 213 one-dayers from 1986 to 1999. He played in four World Cups and was a member of the Sri Lanka side that defeated Australia in the 1996 final in Lahore. 

He also captained Sri Lanka in two one-dayers.

(IANS)