ThePapare.com was privileged to have the opportunity of having a chat with Sri Lanka’s ace-spinner Rangana Herath. The veteran spinner who has over 200 scalps in test cricket enlightened us about his beginnings and his views on his career and Sri Lanka cricket.
How would you describe the start of your cricket career?
I first started playing cricket when I was 11 years old at my old school Mayurapada Central College. My elder brother was also involved with cricket and that was another reason why I was encouraged to engage in the sport. After I started playing, I realised that I enjoyed playing cricket very much and pursued it.
What challenges did you face enroute towards earning a national spot?
It is always hard to come from outstation and start playing in Colombo. There were many challenges I had to face, such as finding lodging and a job. But I believe I managed to record small victories and overcome all the challenges I came across in order to work myself into the National team.
What sort of influence did Muttiah Muralitharan have on your game?
I have a lot of gratitude towards Murali (Muttiah Muralitharan) and I remember him especially for all his help. I remember he was in the team with me when I played in my first test match and as a senior player and a spinner he really helped me develop as a cricketer. He shared his experiences and gave me tips on various match conditions and situations that are challenging and I remember him dearly as a mentor and a friend.
What do you think of the future of spinners in Sri Lanka? Could you name a few bright prospects?
We have a good spin academy headed by former Sri Lankan spinner Piyal Wijetunga. Sri Lanka currently, possess up and coming spinners like Sachithra Senanayake, P.H.T. Kaushal, Ramith Rambukwella and Seekuge Prasanna naming a few, we also have a good arsenal of left arm spinners as well. I think the future for spinners in Sri Lanka is bright.
As a senior player in the team, what advice would you give a youngster?
If am considered to be successful, I believe whatever I have achieved is because I have had a goal and worked hard towards achieving it. I would give the same advice to anyone, and it does not have to be related to only cricket. You need to work towards your targets and focus on getting them is what I would like to share.
How would you rate the ‘new crop’ of Sri Lankan fast bowlers?
In the past couple of years, we have had a good set of fast bowlers who were developing, and players like Shaminda Eranga, Nuwan Pradeep and Suranga Lakmal have gone on to prove their worth especially with the recent performances against Pakistan. As a spinner, this is a good sign since we have to work in combinations and support each other out. I think there is a good future for Sri Lanka in this front as well.
What do you think of your performance and contribution in 2013?
We only played a few test matches in 2013, but I think I played well last year, and provided support to the national side to the best of my ability and I am satisfied with my performances.
What is your most memorable moment in your cricket career?
I consider my debut as one of those unforgettable moments. We were playing Australia at the Galle International Stadium in 1999 in a drawn game where I took 4 wickets in my first ever innings. Another moment I cherish is being adjudged man of the match and helping Sri Lanka to victory when we toured South Africa.
What are your future plans?
There are two world cups coming up in the future, and having been on the losing team the past few times in the final I want to contribute towards winning some silverware and help Sri Lanka towards lifting a world cup.
ThePapare.com thanks Rangana Herath for his time and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours!
