Bhanuka Rajapaksa promises to “reconsider” international retirement

Minister Rajapaksa with cricketer Rajapaksa

By Bipin Dani

Sri Lanka’s top order batsman Bhanuka Rajapaksa has promised “to reconsider” his international cricket retirement.

The promise has been conveyed to the Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa, who on Wednesday again made the request, this time in person. 
The meeting was arranged by Kris Balthazaar, who is a member of the Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia Municipal Council for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna. 

“I, as a childhood friend of the Sports Minister and also friend of Bhanuka arranged a meeting at Temple Trees Colombo,” Kris Balthazaar said.
Earlier the minister had officially requested the batter to reconsider his decision. 

“In the meeting, which lasted for about 45 minutes, Bhanuka did raise the fitness issues. But his primary concern was also family. He wants to devote more time to his family.”
“Bhanuka being a key member of the team, the minister does not want him to retire, especially considering the World Cup next year.”

“Even if Bhanuka reverses his decision, there will be no exception (for him or for any players) on fitness issues.”

“Bhanuka has asked for a day’s time to discuss it with the family and is expected to convey his decision in the next 24-hours,” the mutual friend added. 

“If Bhanuka decides to reverse his decision, he may be given a fresh contract. But yes, the ultimate decision will lie with the selectors. The minister never interferes in team selection,” emphasized Balthazaar.