![DS de Silva passes away [Source: @RexClementine/x.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1765871741698_DS_de_Silva_passes_away(1).jpg?type=hq)
DS de Silva passes away [Source: @RexClementine/x.com]
Former Sri Lankan captain Somachandra de Silva, also known as DS de Silva, has passed away at the age of 83 in London, his family confirmed. The former cricketer was famed for being one of the members of the team that played Sri Lanka’s first-ever Test match in 1982.
He received the team’s second Test cap and also the first ODI cap. Apart from that, De Silva also captained Sri Lanka in two Test matches. The leg-spinner became the first Sri Lankan bowler to take a five-wicket haul in a Test innings during the 1982 tour of Pakistan and later became the oldest Test player to lead the island nation during New Zealand’s tour of 1983.
He represented Sri Lanka in 12 Tests and 41 ODIs, claiming 37 and 32 wickets, respectively. Even after retiring, he remained closely tied to Sri Lankan cricket, serving as chairman from 2009 to 2011. He played a key role in developing the country's infrastructure, completing the development of several international stadiums.
Commentator Roshan Abeysinghe pays tribute to DS de Silva
Cricket commentator Roshan Abeysinghe paid his homage to the late cricketer, recalling his many contributions to the team as a player and as the chairman of the board.
“DS, as he was popularly known, served this nation in many capacities and was instrumental in developing international cricket infrastructure in Sri Lanka. He will always be remembered for his service to the game,” Abeysinghe said.
The former player and chairman of Sri Lanka Cricket passed away after suffering from a brief illness on the 15th of December.
