“It is a moment of great pride and honour to be receiving this award”
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
Legendary spinner Muttiah Muralitharan has become the first Sri Lankan player to be inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame.
The special occasion took place during the innings break of Sri Lanka’s Champions Trophy clash with India on Thursday, which they won by seven wickets.
“It is a moment of great pride and honour to be receiving this award, especially from the ICC which is the ultimate any cricketer can aspire to achieve,” the 45-year-old said. “The induction during this prestigious ICC Champions Trophy makes it even more remarkable.
“I thank the ICC for making this possible because this is a moment I will cherish throughout life.”
ICC Chief Executive David Richardson added: “Murali’s record speaks for itself. His control of line, pace and length coupled with his ability to spin the ball prodigiously are legendary. Once he developed the ‘doosra’ he became almost unplayable.
“A character popular with fellow players and fans alike, he not only helped raise the profile of Sri Lankan cricket but was a player people came out to watch the world over. I congratulate him on behalf of the ICC on being inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame.”
Muralitharan is arguably the greatest bowler to ever play the game as he currently holds the record for the most Test and ODI wickets in the history of the sport.
The Kandy native finished with 800 Test wickets, which included 67 five-wicket hauls, at an average of 22.72.
In regards to ODIs, he claimed 534 wickets, which included 10 five-wicket hauls, at an average of 23.08.