Marvan Atapattu Biography: Wife, Age, Children, Net Worth, Height, Parents, Career, Captain

Marvan Atapattu is a distinguished former professional cricketer, cricket coach, and commentator, celebrated as one of Sri Lanka’s finest batsmen.

Known for his elegant technique and resilience, he overcame a challenging start to score over 14,000 international runs, including six Test double centuries. His leadership as captain and contributions as a coach have left a lasting impact on cricket.

Profile

• Full Name: Deshabandu Marvan Samson Atapattu
• Stage Name: Marvan Atapattu
• Born: November 22, 1970
• Age: 54 years old
• Birthplace: Kalutara, Sri Lanka
• Nationality: Sri Lankan
• Occupation: Sri Lankan Cricket Coach, Commentator, Former Professional Cricketer
• Height: 5’8
• Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Atapattu
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Neluni Atapattu
• Children: Two daughters
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $3 million to $5 million

Early Life and Education

Marvan Atapattu, a former professional cricketer, was born on November 22, 1970, in Kalutara, Sri Lanka. Raised in a supportive family, he developed an early passion for cricket.

He began his cricketing journey at Mahinda College, Galle, under the guidance of coach Major G.W.S. de Silva. Later, he moved to Ananda College, Colombo, where he was coached by P.W. Perera, refining his skills as a technically gifted batsman. His performances in school cricket earned him a spot in first-class cricket with the Sinhalese Sports Club in 1988–89.

Details about his formal education beyond school are limited, but his cricketing talent paved the way for a remarkable career. His ethnicity is Sinhalese, and his religion is likely Buddhism, common among Sri Lankans, though specifics remain private.

Career

Marvan Atapattu, a former professional cricketer, is renowned for his elegant batting and technical prowess. Despite a nightmarish start—scoring five ducks and a single in his first six Test innings—he debuted in Tests against India in November 1990 and ODIs at Nagpur the same year. His breakthrough came in 1997 with a century against India in Mohali, seven years after his debut, sparking a prolific career.

Atapattu amassed 5,502 Test runs in 90 matches at an average of 39.02, including 16 centuries and six double centuries, a feat surpassed only by Don Bradman, Wally Hammond, and Brian Lara.

In ODIs, he scored 8,529 runs in 268 matches at an average of 37.57, with 11 centuries. A key member of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning squad, though he played sparingly, he later captained the team, leading them to the 2004 Asia Cup title and a Test series win against South Africa. His 249 against Zimbabwe in 2004 remains his highest Test score.

A skilled fielder, he recorded the second-highest run-outs in ODIs since 1999. After retiring in 2007 following disputes with selectors, he coached Canada, Singapore, and Sri Lanka (2014–2015) and now works as a commentator.

Social Media

• Marvan Atapattu’s social media account is unknown to the media

Personal Life

Marvan Atapattu, a former professional cricketer, now 54, lives a private life with his family. He is married to Neluni Atapattu, a chartered accountant, and they have two daughters.

Despite a back injury that plagued much of his career, requiring treatment abroad, Atapattu remained dedicated to cricket. Known for his reserved yet firm demeanor, he faced challenges with selectors, famously calling them “a set of muppets headed by a joker” during the 2007–08 Australia tour.

He enjoys a quiet life, focusing on family and mentoring young cricketers through academies in Sri Lanka, emphasizing discipline and teamwork. His religious beliefs are likely Buddhist, though not publicly detailed.

Net Worth

Marvan Atapattu, a former professional cricketer, has an estimated net worth of $3 million to $5 million. His wealth stems from his 17-year cricket career, including earnings from international matches, endorsements, and coaching roles with Canada, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. His business ventures, including partnerships in sports management and a cricket gear line, further contribute to his income.