Arjuna Ranatunga, once the living embodiment of Sri Lankan expectations and the captain that guided Sri Lanka to its 1996 Cricket World Cup triumph, is today at the center of a major corruption probe. The anti corruption authorities of Sri Lanka said in December 2025 that Ranatunga could face arrest over an alleged loss to the state owned Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) of nearly Rs 800 million. It is a shocking and unsettling development in the public life of one of the country’s most celebrated sports personalities.
The Recent Allegations Explained
The case relates to Ranatunga’s tenure as Minister of Petroleum Resources Development. Investigators allege that during the 2017–2018 period, three long‑term fuel procurement tenders meant for the CPC were cancelled. Instead of following the original tender process, fuel purchases were allegedly made through short‑term spot tenders at significantly higher prices.
According to the prosecution, this decision resulted in an estimated loss of around Rs 800 million to the CPC. The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption informed the court that these procurement decisions are now under scrutiny for possible abuse of authority and financial mismanagement.
Ranatunga has been named as the second suspect in the case, while his brother Dhammika Ranatunga, the former chairman of the CPC, has been named as the first suspect.
Court Proceedings and Current Status
Dhammika Ranatunga was produced before the court on corruption allegations and later granted bail after providing a surety of Rs 1 million. The court also issued a strict warning prohibiting him from influencing witnesses or interfering with the investigation.
During the hearings, the Bribery Commission informed the court that Arjuna Ranatunga could not be arrested at the time because he was overseas. Prosecutors requested court intervention to enable his arrest upon return to Sri Lanka, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the need for further questioning.
As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and Ranatunga’s arrest is considered likely once he returns to the country.
A Stark Contrast to His Public Image
The allegations stand in sharp contrast to the image Ranatunga once cultivated. Known during his playing days for refusing commercial endorsements and emphasizing integrity, he often credited his mother for instilling strong moral values in him. He famously recalled how she rejected lucrative advertising offers, telling him that his talent and face were “not for sale.”
That narrative of personal integrity has now been challenged by the present accusations, making the case emotionally charged for fans who grew up idolising him.
From a schoolboy cricketer to a national hero
Arjuna Ranatunga was born on 1 December 1963 in Gampaha. He progressed from being a prolific schoolboy cricketer at Ananda College to becoming Sri Lanka’s most influential captain. Under his captaincy, Sri Lanka turned from a dark horse to world champions in 1996. He was respected all over the world for his conspiratorial tactics, his fearless attitude and his protection of his players.
After retiring from cricket in 2001, he successfully entered administration and then politics, serving in different ministries and becoming a big public figure outside sport. Politics, however, also brought him into controversy, criticism and even legal battles.
Previous controversies
This is not the first time Ranatunga has been embroiled in controversy. He was involved in political controversies during the 2018 constitutional crisis and was at the center of high profile match fixing allegations which were later dropped due to insufficient evidence. Ranatunga’s outspoken nature and confrontational style have kept him in the media’s eye for years.
However, the current corruption allegation seems to be the most serious controversy he has faced, as it pertains to public funds and governance.
What Lies Ahead
The next phase of the case depends largely on Ranatunga’s return to Sri Lanka and the progress of the investigation. If arrested, he will be produced before court, where the legal process will determine whether the allegations can be substantiated.
Regardless of the outcome, the case has already altered the way many view Arjuna Ranatunga’s legacy.
Conclusion
Arjuna Ranatunga’s life story is one of extraordinary highs and deeply troubling lows. As a cricketer, he gave Sri Lanka its proudest sporting moment. As a public servant, he now faces allegations that threaten to redefine how history remembers him.
Whether the courts ultimately clear or convict him, the recent accusations mark a defining chapter in his journey—one that serves as a powerful reminder that public trust, once earned, can be quickly tested when questions of accountability arise.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Deshamanya Arjuna Ranatunga |
| Date of Birth | 1 December 1963 |
| Place of Birth | Gampaha, near Colombo, Sri Lanka |
| Nationality | Sri Lankan |
| Profession | Former cricketer, cricket administrator, politician |
| Education | Ananda College, Colombo |
| Cricket Role | Left-handed batsman; former Sri Lanka captain |
| International Career | 1982 – 2001 |
| Major Achievement | Led Sri Lanka to 1996 Cricket World Cup victory |
| Test / ODI Matches | 93 Tests, 269 ODIs |
| Post-Cricket Roles | Commentator, ICC committee member, Sri Lanka Cricket administrator |
| Political Career | Member of Parliament; held several cabinet and deputy minister posts |
| Key Ministry | Minister of Petroleum Resources Development |
| Known Leadership Style | Aggressive, fearless, strongly protective of players |
| On-field Controversies | Disputes with umpires; confrontations during international matches |
| Cricket Administration Disputes | Removal as Sri Lanka Cricket chairman due to disagreements |
| Match-Fixing Claims | Alleged fixing of 2011 World Cup final; probe later dropped |
| Political Controversies | Arrest during 2018 constitutional crisis |
| Recent Corruption Case | Under investigation over alleged CPC financial loss |
| Alleged Amount | Nearly Rs. 800 million |
| Period Under Scrutiny | 2017–2018 |
| Co-Accused | Brother Dhammika Ranatunga (former CPC chairman) |
| Legal Status | Arrest likely upon return to Sri Lanka |
| Public Reaction | Mixed response; admiration for cricket legacy, concern over allegations |
| Overall Legacy | Celebrated cricket icon with a career marked by achievements and controversies |