Legendary Sri Lankan cricketer heaps praise on Rumesh Tharanga after stunning CWG gold over Neeraj Chopra

Sri Lanka's Rumesh Tharanga scripted history at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after defeating Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra to clinch the men's javelin throw gold medal in Glasgow. The 23-year-old's remarkable triumph also earned praise from legendary Sri Lanka cricketer Kumar Sangakkara, who hailed the achievement on social media.

Tharanga became only the fifth Sri Lankan athlete to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal and the country's first champion at the event since 2006.

Also Read: Cricket Ireland steps up security as Afghanistan series faces protest threat, here's why

Kumar Sangakkara celebrates Rumesh Tharanga's historic Commonwealth Games triumph

Following Tharanga's memorable victory, former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara congratulated the javelin thrower and described it as a proud moment for the country.

Taking to social media platform X, Sangakkara wrote:

"Incredible and proud day for Sri Lanka."

The message quickly gained traction among fans, with many joining the former cricketer in applauding Tharanga for ending Sri Lanka's long wait for a Commonwealth Games gold medal.

Rumesh Tharanga stuns Neeraj Chopra to win gold

Competing under difficult weather conditions in Glasgow, Tharanga needed just one valid throw to secure the biggest title of his career.

After his opening attempt of around 85 metres was ruled a foul because he crossed the line, the Sri Lankan responded immediately with a sensational throw of 89.75 metres, which ultimately proved enough to secure the gold medal.

Although he fouled his remaining four attempts, none of his rivals managed to surpass his winning mark. India's Neeraj Chopra settled for the silver medal with a best throw of 85.83 metres, while compatriot Yash Vir Singh claimed bronze after registering a personal best of 85.41 metres.

Also Read: 'I wouldn't be surprised': Rob Key leaves door open for Ben Stokes' England comeback after retirement

The victory marked a historic milestone for Tharanga, who became the first Sri Lankan athlete in two decades to stand atop the Commonwealth Games podium and delivered one of the biggest upsets of the athletics competition by finishing ahead of one of the sport's biggest stars.