Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath is playing his 93rd and final Test against England in the series-opener at Galle. Going into his final Test, Herath has claimed 430 wickets at an average of 27.95 and a strike rate of 59.7 in 168 Test bowling innings in his career.
He is among the top ten leading wicket takers in Test cricket history. Only Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708), Anil Kumble (619), James Anderson (564), Glenn McGrath (563), Courtney Walsh (519), Kapil Dev (434), Stuart Broad (433) and Richard Hadlee (431)
As far as the five-wicket haul is concerned – Herath has taken 34 fifer in his career only behind Murali (67), Warne (37), Hadlee (36) and Kumble (35).
As Rangana Herath took the field on Tuesday morning, everyone has a word of praise for the Lankan spin legend. Current and former Sri Lankan cricketers tweeted out their appreciation for Herath’s services to the island nation.
Here are some of the tweets:
Best wishes @HerathRSL as you play your final test. It’s been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable moments of joy, heartbreak and glory. Yet through it all You played the game with grace and humility. Greatness sits firmly but lightly upon your shoulders.
— Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) November 6, 2018
Wishing @HerathRSL all the very best in his last test for @OfficialSLC . Last of the Togans who I had the pleasure of playing alongside. Truly a champion. Have fun #Toga ????
— Mahela Jayawardena (@MahelaJay) November 5, 2018
I wish you all the very best for your final test. It’s been a wonderful journey. Very proud of what you have achieved throughout the years. Good luck Ranga ayya @HerathRSL
— Lahiru Thirimanna (@thiri66) November 6, 2018
The little Champ @HerathRSL Congratulations on a fabulous career and all the best to life after . One of the best as a player and person too. #Galle #SLVENG pic.twitter.com/nlPQrWbWEr
— Russel Arnold (@RusselArnold69) November 6, 2018
Wishing @HerathRSL the legend nothing but the best.Thanks for your services #greathuman pic.twitter.com/hT129LXmll
— Angelo Mathews (@Angelo69Mathews) November 6, 2018
@HerathRSL good luck for the next 5 days champion! Hope you’ll finish strong???????? proud to call myself a former team mate & a close friend.. You’ll be missed! @OfficialSLC #SlvEng
— Farveez Maharoof (@farveezmaharoof) November 6, 2018