Colombo, Oct. 8 -- Dhananjaya de Silva has stepped down as captain of the Sri Lankan Test team with immediate effect, according to the ICC website.

De Silva was appointed Sri Lanka's Test captain in January 2024.

In a letter addressed to Sri Lanka's selection committee, de Silva said he believed the responsibility should now be passed on to the next generation.

"It's my genuine opinion that the mantle should go down to the next generation," he said.

De Silva confirmed that he would remain available for selection as a player for Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley de Silva thanked him for his contributions to the team in the longest format.

"Sri Lanka Cricket wishes him the very best for the remainder of his career and thanks him...