Sri Lankan cricketer Lahiru Thirimanne and family hospitalized after car accident 

Sri Lankan cricketer Lahiru Thirimanne and his family have been hospitalized after being involved in a car accident. New York Strikers, the franchise the 34-year-old is representing in the Legends Cricket Trophy 2024, has issued a statement, confirming that the cricketer and his family are safe.

Thirimanne represented New York Strikers against Kandy Samp Army in match number 11 of Legends Cricket Trophy 2024 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, March 13. He was dismissed for 18 off 14 as Kandy Samp Army registered a five-wicket win in a chase of 154.

On Thursday, New York Strikers issued a statement on Thirimanne’s accident and said that the plyer and his family were involved in a small car accident while visiting a temple.

“We wish to inform you that Lahiru Thirimanne and his family were involved in a small car accident while visiting the temple. Thankfully, they have been admitted to the hospital for observation.

"Fortunately, following a thorough medical assessment, we can confirm that they are all safe and sound, with no cause for concern. We appreciate the outpouring of concern and support from everyone during this time,” the statement read, as quoted as saying by newswire.lk.

According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, Thirimanne was hospitalized after the car he was travelling in was involved in a serious head-on collision near Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka on Thursday morning.

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Thirimanne announced his retirement from international cricket in July 2023

Thirimanne, a former captain of the Sri Lankan national team, announced his retirement from international cricket in July 2023 after a 13-year career.

In a career comprising plenty of ups and downs, the left-hander represented Sri Lanka in 44 Tests, 127 ODIs and 26 T20Is. He was part of Sri Lanka's 2014 T20 World Cup triumph and led them in five one-day internationals.

While confirming his retirement, the cricketer released a statement on Facebook and said:

"As a player I have given my best, I have tried my best, I have respected the game, and I have done my duty honestly and ethically to my motherland.

"It was a difficult decision to make, but I cannot mention here the many unexpected reasons that influenced me to take this decision willingly or unwillingly.

"I take this opportunity to thank the SLC members, my coaches, teammates, physios, trainers and analysts for their support and encouragement," he added.

A highly rated batter, Thirimanne ended his career with 2,088 runs in Tests, 3,194 runs in ODIs and 291 in T20Is, notching up seven international hundreds.