Sri Lanka has given the cricketing world legendary players like Muttiah Muralitharan, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Sanath Jayasuriya, and Arjuna Ranatunga. Among the unsung heroes who made significant contributions to Sri Lankan cricket is Marvan Atapattu, the former captain who led the team to an Asia Cup triumph in 2004.
A Dismal Beginning
Atapattu’s early Test career was nothing short of a nightmare. In his first six innings, he recorded five ducks, including a pair on his debut. Such a start could have derailed any cricketer’s journey, but Atapattu’s determination saw him persist. After being dropped multiple times, he finally cemented his place, scoring his maiden Test century—108 runs—against India in Mohali during his 18th innings.
Despite the shaky beginning, Atapattu’s career blossomed. In his 17-year international career, he amassed 5502 runs in 90 Tests, which included 6 double centuries and 16 hundreds. At the time of his retirement, only Don Bradman, Brian Lara, and Wally Hammond had more double centuries in Test cricket.
Excellence in ODIs
Atapattu also enjoyed a successful ODI career, scoring 8529 runs at an average of 37.57. It took him seven years after his ODI debut to notch his first century in the format. Paired with Sanath Jayasuriya at the top of the order, Atapattu provided the perfect balance with his calm and steady approach, complementing Jayasuriya’s aggressive style. His elegant batting technique and impeccable cover drive were hallmarks of his game.
The Greedy Perfectionist
Reflecting on his six double centuries, Atapattu once admitted that “greediness” played a role in his success. Speaking to The Cricket Monthly, he said, “For all the zeroes I made at the start of my career, I thought if I get a start, I have to make the most of it. I enjoyed spending time in the middle, and that drive to capitalize kept me going.”
Controversies and Retirement
Atapattu’s career wasn’t without its share of controversies. He often clashed with Sri Lanka’s selectors and famously labeled them as “a set of muppets headed by a joker” during the 2007-08 Australia tour. His international career came to an end during that tour, with Atapattu announcing his retirement after the Hobart Test.
Legacy
Marvan Atapattu’s story is one of resilience and determination. From a disastrous start to achieving greatness, he left a significant mark on Sri Lankan cricket, proving that perseverance can turn early failures into lasting success.
