Galle, Feb 4 (Reporter) Former Sri Lanka Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne will mark a monumental milestone in his career as he plays his 100th and final Test match beginning Thursday against Australia at the Galle International Stadium, as per media reports. "After the first Test against Australia ended, I told SLC (Sri Lanka Cricket) that the next Test would be my last ...," Karunaratne said as reported by ICC. It is here, at the very same venue, that Karunaratne made his debut in 2012, a full circle moment that has special significance for the left-handed opener. The 36-year-old, who has been a stalwart in Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, steps away after a distinguished career, having amassed 7,172 runs in 99 Tests, including 16 centuries. His highest score of 244 came against Bangladesh in 2021, and his achievements also include a rare record of scoring both a duck and a century in the same Test. Playing in his 100th Test at Galle adds to the poetic nature of Karunaratne's retirement, as he began his international journey at this very venue with a modest debut against New Zealand in 2012. Despite the glorious highs, Karunaratne's career has had its share of recent struggles, with his form dipping in the latter stages. He managed just 182 runs in his last seven Test matches, with a solitary half-century against New Zealand in September 2024. However, his leadership and contributions to Sri Lanka’s cricketing fabric over the years remain invaluable. One of Karunaratne’s greatest regrets is not reaching a World Test Championship Final. Karunaratne’s impact extends beyond his personal milestones. Having captained Sri Lanka in 30 Tests from 2019 to 2024, he led the team through challenging periods, and under his guidance, Sri Lanka saw significant moments of success. He was nominated for the ICC Test Player of the Year Award in 2021 and was part of the ICC World Test XI for his outstanding performance, scoring 902 runs that year at an average of 69.38. With his final Test appearance, Karunaratne is not only bidding farewell to international cricket but also solidifying his legacy as one of Sri Lanka's cricketing giants. His 100th Test at Galle, where it all began, will be a fitting tribute to a career defined by resilience, leadership, and an enduring love for the game...////...