Arjuna Ranatunga: Azharuddin is the best Indian captain ever

“I have really fond memories of this city. Even though I haven’t played at this lovely ground (in Uppal), I have played at the old ground (Lal Bahadur Stadium) where I got a quick-fire 90 against India in One Day International. Those were lovely days. This is the city of Mohd Azharuddin, who for me is the best captain of this country. He was a shrewd leader,” Ranatunga told reporters.

Ranatunga, who is currently Sri Lanka's Minister of Ports and Shipping, was in India on an invitation from the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA). 

“I made a visit to Tirupati with my friends when I was invited to come over here. I am thrilled to once again be in the city and visit the ground. As a politician, I don’t get that much time to visit grounds or watch a match. Hence it’s a great privilege for me to spend time at this lovely ground,” Ranatunga said.

Ranatunga played in 93 Tests and 269 ODIs in a career spanning 18 seasons after making his debut in Sri Lanka's inaugural Test in 1982.

“Whatever a young cricketer does, he should do it properly. There should be total commitment from him for the team’s cause. It’s a great honour to play for the country and a youngster should focus on representing the country rather than thinking of making money,” Ranatunga said during an interaction with young cricketers.