Sidath Wettimuny, a prominent Sri Lankan cricketer, is widely recognized for his contributions to the national team during its early years in the Test arena. Born on October 11, 1956, Wettimuny embarked on a cricketing journey that spanned over a decade, leaving an indelible mark on Sri Lankan cricket history.
Hailing from a family deeply immersed in cricket, Wettimuny followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Mithra, who also represented Sri Lanka internationally. In a remarkable display of sibling camaraderie, Sidath had the privilege of opening alongside his brother in two Test matches, creating a rare and cherished bond on the cricket field.
Renowned for his solid right-hand batting technique and compact style, Wettimuny’s career was highlighted by two significant centuries in Test cricket. During Sri Lanka’s inaugural overseas tour in 1982, Wettimuny etched his name in the record books by scoring 157 runs against Pakistan at Faisalabad. Not only was this his maiden Test century, but it also marked the first-ever century by a Sri Lankan cricketer at the highest level.
However, Wettimuny’s finest hour came at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in 1984. Displaying remarkable resilience and determination, he crafted a monumental innings of 190, capitalizing on his extraordinary strokeplay. This exceptional knock, spanning over 642 minutes and 471 balls, solidified Wettimuny’s reputation as a formidable batsman capable of thriving on the international stage.
In addition to his batting prowess, Wettimuny achieved another milestone in 1982-83 against New Zealand, becoming the first Sri Lankan to carry his bat through an innings. In a match marred by a meager team total of 144 runs, Wettimuny stood tall, notching an unbeaten 63—an innings characterized by his unwavering determination and resilience.
Throughout his career, Wettimuny faced the challenge of finding a stable opening partner, which often impacted his performances. While he excelled on overseas wickets, his records demonstrate a slight decline towards the end of his Test career. Nevertheless, his noteworthy contributions to Sri Lankan cricket cannot be understated.
Following his retirement from playing, Wettimuny remained intimately involved in the sport, transitioning to roles off the field. He initially served as a match referee, ensuring the fair play and conduct of cricket matches. Subsequently, Wettimuny took on the role of chairman of selectors for the Sri Lankan cricket team.
Notably, his commitment to the game extended beyond his personal pursuits, as he dedicated his efforts to nurturing and developing the next generation of Sri Lankan cricketers. With his wealth of experience and astute cricketing acumen, Wettimuny played an instrumental role in shaping the future of Sri Lankan cricket through his role as chairman of selectors.
Sidath Wettimuny’s career in cricket, marked by remarkable achievements both on and off the field, established him as a revered figure in Sri Lankan cricket history. His unwavering resolve, enviable skill, and unwavering commitment to the sport exemplify his enduring impact and legacy in Sri Lanka’s cricketing journey.
