There are heroes, and then there are legends. One such legend of Sri Lanka is Roshan Mahanama, the former world cup winning cricketer. One of the greatest ambassador of gentlemen’s game in the Island, Mahanama has been widely respected for his honesty, transparency and integrity on and off the field. And now, the legendary batsman is launching his autobiography on December 16, which promises to be a captivating read. Since Kevin Pietersen’s autobiography, this book is being called the second most awaited cricketing autobiography, not only in Sri Lanka but in World Cricket also.
The autobiography, titled Roshan Mahanama – Retired Hurt to the best view of the game, is a revised edition of his original biography “Retired Hurt”, which was published two decades ago. Penned by noted Australian sports chronicler Ken Piesse, along with former U19 Sri Lanka player Ashan Peiris, the autobiography is being self published by Mahanama and will be launched in two languages – English and Sinhala.
“The book has been restructured to match the present context. The English version consists of 434 pages, while the Sinhala book has 534 pages. Few more chapters, like his experience as ICC Elite Panel match referee and his involvement in T20 franchise League including IPL, have been added in the book. Keeping the Coronavirus scenario in mind, the launching will be more like virtual one, with only family members and close friends will be present in the event” a close associate of Mahanama told Cricket Age.
In Sri Lanka, even after two decades of his retirement, he remains one of the most respected voice in cricket circles, along with Sidath Wettimuny. Especially his conduct as a celebrated legend has inspired generations! Inevitably, his book also reflects these morale values.
“He (Mahnama) thought of passing his experience to young cricketers around the globe. The book highlights the importance of discipline, integrity, commitment and hard work in the game. It Also inspires young generation to not chase the money, instead play to bring the glory for the nation and become the true ambassador of the game” the close associate added.
He featured in four ICC Cricket World Cup tournaments in 1987, 1992, 1996 and 1999 during his career and retired from international cricket following the 1999 World Cup. After the retirement, Mahanama made the transition into becoming an ICC match referee. He joined the elite panel in 2004 and eventually entered the elite group of match referees who have officiated more than 200 matches. He also became the first match referee to serve in a day-night Test match in the history of the game, where the pink ball was used for the first time as well. He also served as a match referee at the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 and 2021 editions.
“This is not for the monetary purpose. As he has always been involved in humanitarian activities, the funds of book selling will be donated for charity work” the close associate added.
Notably, he was just recently felicitated during the UNV50 Country Awards commemorating the United Nations Golden Anniversary recognizing the value and contribution of volunteerism.
