Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has revealed that his original Test cap was stolen from his hotel room during a tour of England.
Speaking about the sentimental value of the iconic Test cap, Sangakkara said he no longer has his original cap following the incident.
Sangakkara was responding to a question about former Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Dinuk Hettiarachchi, who reportedly never received his official Test cap. While saying he was unaware of the specific details of Hettiarachchi’s case, Sangakkara stressed that the matter should be investigated and addressed if the player had not been formally presented with his cap.
He highlighted the deep emotional attachment players develop with their Test caps, describing them as powerful symbols of national pride and honour.
Sangakkara recalled wearing his own cap until it became completely worn out. He said players could become so attached to their caps that they would even hesitate to wash them despite the sweat and smell, because of the pride and memories associated with representing Sri Lanka in Test cricket.
He also stressed that playing Test cricket for the national team is a tremendous privilege and said the sport needs to create a strong narrative to inspire the next generation.
According to Sangakkara, young cricketers should be encouraged to aspire to reach the highest level of the game, while also being shown that a successful career in cricket can provide financial stability and security for themselves and their families.
