Is that really Arjuna Ranatunga?: Stunned fans express concern about Sri Lanka great’s health after viral photo

Stunned fans express concern about Arjuna Ranatunga’s health after viral photo (X/Sanath07)

Sri Lanka's World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga recently made a public appearance, reuniting with old teammates Sanath Jayasuriya, Aravinda de Silva, and Muttiah Muralitharan at the Tamil Union's 125th anniversary festivities.

Ranatunga was spotted wearing a red kurta in a widely shared photo, but some social media users couldn't identify the renowned Sri Lankan captain since he was noticeably thinner than when he was a player. Because of his bulky build in the past, several people even expressed concerns about his health.

Jayasuriya posted the photo, which showed 1996 World Cup-winning skipper Ranatunga's physical transformation, on his official X account. Here are a few reactions:

Is Arjuna in Red? If yes, is he sick?

— Subramaniam Krishnan (@SubramaniamKr16) November 6, 2025

Ranathunga is unrecognisable

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— Vivek Krish (@vivekvanchiyoor) November 6, 2025

Arjuna looking 20 years younger than everyone else

— ranidu (@Ranidu) November 6, 2025

What happend to Arjuna sir.

— Fbb (@Fahadbashir33) November 6, 2025

Aspersions about Muralitharan's bowling action frequently cornered the Sri Lankan team, but Ranatunga, with his chewing gum-ruminating face, blink less stare, and steely resolve, would lead from the front and stand solid, rallying around the troubled spinner frequently called by umpires.

The ancient trolls would target Ranatunga's girth, particularly when Sri Lanka defeated one of the major nations. Ranatunga would also muscle the ball and lead countless calm chases.

Indian supporters were truly astounded by the team's modern perspective and unwavering support for their bowlers. As a result, Ranatunga's unwavering leadership enabled Sri Lanka to draw a number of mystery bowlers and unusual tactics in the years that followed.

The third Test match against South Africa marked the 61-year-old's retirement from international cricket in July 2000. Ranatunga joined the Sinhala Urumaya party and entered politics after hanging his boots.