Niroshan Dickwella's return to Sri Lanka's Test setup has gained a lot of attention ahead of the team's upcoming series against India National Cricket Team. The experienced wicketkeeper-batter has been recalled after spending almost three years away from Test cricket, with his inclusion immediately prompting questions over the selectors' decision.
Dickwella last played a Test for Sri Lanka against New Zealand in March 2023. His international career was later interrupted by an anti-doping suspension in 2024, although that ban was subsequently reduced from three years to three months following an appeal. Former Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne has now addressed the controversy, acknowledging the debate while explaining why the selectors could have opted for Niroshan Dickwella.
Dickwella's recall has attracted attention because he is returning to Test cricket after a lengthy absence and a turbulent period away from the international game. The 33-year-old has considerable experience in the longest format, having played 54 Tests and scored 2,757 runs at an average of 30.97, with a highest score of 96.
His wicketkeeping record also remains a significant part of his case. Dickwella has built a reputation as an aggressive left-handed batter who can change the tempo of an innings while also providing considerable experience behind the stumps.
However, his return has naturally led to questions about the selection process. The debate is not simply about whether Dickwella has the ability to play Test cricket. It is about whether his recent performances and overall readiness justified bringing him back ahead of other wicketkeeping options.
The circumstances surrounding his return have added another layer to the discussion. Dickwella was suspended by Sri Lanka Cricket in August 2024 following an anti-doping violation during the Lanka Premier League. His initial three-year sanction was later reduced to three months after an appeal established that the substance was consumed outside the competition period and was unrelated to performance enhancement. He was subsequently cleared to resume cricket.
With Sri Lanka preparing to face India in the first Test in Galle, Dickwella now has an opportunity to settle the debate through his performances. His return also comes at a time when Sri Lanka have been forced to make changes to their wicketkeeping options because of player unavailability.
Dimuth Karunaratne reacts to Niroshan Dickwella controversy
Sri Lanka legend Dimuth Karunaratne has acknowledged that Niroshan Dickwella's inclusion has generated plenty of discussion but believes the selectors may have looked beyond his recent batting form when making the decision.
In a social media post, the former Sri Lanka Test captain suggested that Niroshan Dickwella's wicketkeeping ability and experience in Test cricket could have played an important role in the selectors' thinking. He stated:
“I’ve seen a lot of discussion and controversy surrounding Niroshan Dickwella inclusion in the Test squad. Personally, I feel the selectors may have considered his wicketkeeping ability and experience in the longer format when making this decision."
Karunaratne also made it clear that he does not necessarily believe Dickwella is currently the strongest batting option among Sri Lanka's wicketkeepers. He pointed to Anjala Bandara and Sadeera Samarawickrama as players who are ahead of him based on recent form and batting performances. He stated:
“In terms of recent form and batting performances, I believe Anjala Bandara and Sadeera Samarawickrama are currently ahead of him.”
However, Karunaratne believes the recall gives Dickwella a major opportunity to rebuild his Test career. With the India series about to begin, he feels the wicketkeeper-batter can use the opportunity to answer his critics on the field.
“That said, this is a very important opportunity for Dickwella to prove himself. With the Test starting tomorrow, I'm sure he knows how important this series could be for his future in Test cricket. Wishing you all the very best, Dikka, for what could be one of the most challenging and important series of your career. Give it everything" he concluded.
Niroshan Dickwella's past controversies
Dickwella's return also brings back memories of the disciplinary issues that interrupted his career. In 2021, he was suspended alongside Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka after the trio breached Sri Lanka's COVID-19 bio-secure protocols during the England tour. The players were sent home from the tour and subsequently received international suspensions.
The more serious setback came in 2024 when Dickwella was suspended following an anti-doping test conducted during the LPL. Sri Lanka Cricket initially suspended him from all forms of cricket, while a subsequent three-year sanction was later reduced to three months after his appeal.
Now, after a long road back to the national side, Niroshan Dickwella has another chance to revive his Test career.
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