Former Sri Lanka cricket captain Arjuna Ranatunga, known for his stocky build during his playing days, has surprised fans with a dramatic transformation after undergoing bariatric surgery. The 63-year-old politician and World Cup-winning skipper now appears noticeably slimmer, as revealed in a photograph shared by Indian politician and author Shashi Tharoor on social media.
Tharoor Shares Photo of Renowned Cricketer
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on July 26, 2026, Tharoor wrote: “Cricket fans might have some difficulty in recognising this former Sri Lankan cricket captain who called on me in Colombo. Yes, this is the new, svelte, post-bariatric surgery Arjuna Ranatunga! Asked how it felt after years of being famously roly-poly even at his cricketing peak, he told me he now plays charity matches and cheerfully bats for three hours, whereas pre-surgery he could barely get through three overs!” The accompanying image showed Ranatunga dressed in formal trousers and a shirt, with an angavastram draped over his shoulders, standing alongside Tharoor, who was in his usual formal attire.
Ranatunga's Cricketing Legacy
Ranatunga captained Sri Lanka to its historic 1996 Cricket World Cup triumph, a defining moment in the nation’s sporting history. In the final against Australia in Lahore, he remained unbeaten on 47 off 37 balls and struck the winning boundary, receiving the trophy from then Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. He remains the last captain to lead a team to victory over Australia in a men’s ODI World Cup final. During his playing career, Ranatunga was renowned for his sharp tactical acumen and stocky build, often relying on timing and placement rather than quick running between the wickets. His style made him a subject of light-hearted commentary about his ability to “conserve energy.”
Health Issues Prompt Surgery
According to reports, Ranatunga had been dealing with several health issues, including sleep apnea, high blood pressure, polycythemia, and a risk of diabetes. After witnessing positive outcomes from bariatric surgery undergone by his son, daughter, and brother Prasanna, he decided to undergo the procedure himself. The surgery has evidently been successful, as his new look has drawn widespread attention and praise from fans and former colleagues.
Political Career and Controversy
Beyond cricket, Ranatunga has also been active in politics, serving as a member of parliament and holding ministerial positions. His post-cricket life has not been without controversy: in 2017, he alleged that the 2011 World Cup final between India and Sri Lanka had been fixed, triggering widespread debate. Despite the controversy, his stature as a cricketing legend remains intact, and his recent transformation has added a new chapter to his public image.
Fans have taken to social media to express their amazement at Ranatunga's weight loss, with many noting that he looks almost unrecognisable. The former captain’s ability to adapt and reinvent himself, both on and off the field, continues to inspire admiration across the cricketing world.
