Mahanama to step down from ICC match referee panel

DUBAI: Roshan Mahanama, the former Sri Lanka batsman, will step down from the ICC elite match referees panel at the end of the year so that he can spend more time with his family and focus on his business activities in Sri Lanka.
Mahanama joined the elite panel in 2004 and has refereed in 58 Tests, 222 One-day Internationals (ODIs) and 35 T20Is till date, including in three World Cups and the Champions Trophy 2009.
“This has been an extremely difficult decision as I am very passionate about cricket, which has been an integral part of my life for over 40 years as a cricketer, coach and ICC match referee,” Mahanama said.
“However, in life a time comes when one has to keep moving forward based on obligations and priorities. My time has come to devote an uninterrupted focus and attention to my family, who made massive sacrifices over the years to enable me to pursue my career for over three decades.”
Geoff Allardice, the ICC general manager — cricket, thanked Mahanama for his contributions.
“Roshan has been one of the pioneers of the elite panel and has been an integral component during the phase when the referee’s role was evolving,” Allardice said.