Sri Lankan bowling all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne has landed in the middle of a serious personal controversy after a woman approached the court claiming that he is the father of her two-month-old child. According to her petition, the cricketer has allegedly refused to take responsibility for the baby, leaving her with no option but to seek legal intervention.
The matter escalated further on November 23, when the woman, after attending a scheduled court hearing, spoke to the media. She stated that Karunaratne did not appear in court and had informed officials, including the judge, that he was unwell and unable to attend. The woman added that she is fully confident that Karunaratne is the biological father and believes he must accept the truth.
For safety and privacy concerns, the woman’s identity has not been disclosed. She explained that she had reached a point where requesting a paternity test became the only way forward. According to her, the cricketer’s refusal to acknowledge the child has forced her into this legal course of action.
In her statement, she said, “Chamika Karunaratne is this child’s father. Because he has refused to accept responsibility, I have been forced to come to court to request a paternity test. This child has to live in Sri Lanka. I know he is the father. All I want is for him to carry out his responsibilities.”
So far, neither Karunaratne nor Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has issued an official comment regarding the allegations. The case remains unproven at this stage, with the court expected to determine the next steps based on submitted evidence and the results of the requested paternity test.
If the allegations are eventually confirmed, Karunaratne may face disciplinary action from SLC, which in previous cases has taken a strict stance on player behaviour. Possible sanctions could include suspension, depending on the severity of the findings and the board’s assessment of the situation.