Bipin Dani
Sri Lanka's top order batsman Bhanuka Rajapaksha has promised "to reconsider" his retirement plan.
The promise has been conveyed to the Hon.sports minister Namal Rajapaksa, who again on Wednesday made the request, this time in person.
The meeting was arranged by Kris Balthazaar , who is a Professional at Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, Senior member of Municipal Council, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia.
"I, as a childhood friend of Hon. sports minister and also friend of Bhanuka, arranged a meeting at Temple Trees Colombo, which is the official residence of the Hon. Prime Minister'', Kris Balthazaar, said exclusively over the telephone from Colombo.
Earlier the minister had also officially requested the batter to reconsider his decision.
"In the meeting, which lasted for about 45 minutes, Bhanuka did raise the fitness issues. But his primary concern was also the family. He wants to devote more time with his family".
"Bhanuka being a key member of the team, the minister does not want him to retire, especially considering the World Cup next year".
"Even if Bhanuka reverses his decision, there will be no exception (for him or for any players) on fitness issues".
"Bhanuka has asked for a day's time to discuss it with the family and is expected to convey his decision in the next 24-hours", the common friend added.
"If Bhanuka decides to revoke his decision, he may be given a fresh contract. But yes, the ultimate decision will lie with the selectors. The minister never interferes in team selection", emphasized Kris Balthazaar.
