On September 11, 1985, Sri Lanka carved their name into cricket’s history books by winning their maiden Test match. Today marks the 40th anniversary of that momentous day when Duleep Mendis captained the islanders to a famous victory over a star-studded Indian side that never quite knew what hit them.
It was a landmark triumph for a fledgling cricketing nation who tasted their first win barely three years after making their Test debut. The hosts read the pitch and the opposition perfectly, preparing pace-friendly conditions to exploit India’s well-known vulnerability.
Ratnayake Leads the Charge
Rumesh Ratnayake was the undisputed hero with nine wickets, ably supported by Ashantha de Mel and Saliya Ahangama, who claimed five apiece. The standout statistic: 19 of India’s 20 wickets fell to quicks. The lone exception? Arjuna Ranatunga, who rolled his arm over to dismiss none other than Sunil Gavaskar, stumped for only the second time in his storied career.
That’s one of the most enjoyable moments of my cricket. I grew up idolising Gavaskar, but in that series I managed to ruffle his feathers. After the series, he told our Board President Gamini Dissanayake, ‘Look after this boy, he’s going to take your cricket places.’
Silva’s Double Delight
Amal Silva was adjudged Man of the Match after a remarkable double act: nine dismissals behind the stumps and a sparkling century in the first innings.
I have a hundred at Lord’s, but nothing beats that maiden Test win over India. There will never be another first, and we outplayed them in every department. To clinch a victory within three years of entering the big league was surreal.
Kapil’s Resistance, Sri Lanka’s Joy
As the final wickets tumbled, Kapil Dev offered stubborn resistance.
Then I plucked that return catch and pandemonium followed. I ended up with nine wickets, but Ashantha and Saliya were immense. We were all over the moon.
Kapil, however, had sour grapes, blaming the umpires for India’s downfall. Yet the truth was Sri Lanka had nearly upset India in the previous Test at SSC, and cracks were already visible — Gavaskar had even abandoned his customary opening slot to bat in the middle order.
From Cricket Heroes to National Figures
That golden generation went on to scale lofty heights beyond the pitch:
• Mendis became coach of Sri Lanka and now guides Oman
• Ranatunga entered politics and served as a Cabinet Minister
• Ranjan Madugalle rose to become ICC’s Chief Match Referee
• Sidath Wettimuny served as SLC President
• Silva and de Mel became selectors
• Ratnayake is now Head Coach of the women’s team
• Saliya Ahangama migrated to Australia
• Aravinda de Silva turned his passion for cars into a successful business
