Arjuna Ranatunga's Remarkable Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery
A Stunning Transformation
Former Sri Lankan cricket captain Arjuna Ranatunga has astonished fans with his significant weight loss following bariatric surgery. This transformation gained attention when Congress leader Shashi Tharoor posted a photo with Ranatunga during his visit to Colombo for the inaugural Colombo Literary Festival. Tharoor noted that many cricket enthusiasts might find it hard to recognize the former World Cup-winning captain due to his impressive change. At 62, Ranatunga has undergone bariatric surgery, resulting in a noticeable reduction in weight. Tharoor shared that Ranatunga humorously mentioned he can now bat for three hours in charity matches, a stark contrast to his earlier days when he would tire after just three overs. This remarkable change has reignited discussions about the health benefits of bariatric surgery for individuals struggling with obesity.
Cricket fans might have some difficulty in recognizing this former Sri Lankan cricket captain who called on me in Colombo. Yes, this is the new, svelte, post-bariatric surgery @ArjunaRanatunga! Asked how it felt after years of being famously roly-poly even at his cricketing… pic.twitter.com/7PJoxuB0ii
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) July 26, 2026
Understanding Bariatric Surgery
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery encompasses various surgical procedures aimed at facilitating significant and lasting weight loss. These surgeries modify the digestive system by either reducing stomach size or altering how the small intestine absorbs nutrients. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe obesity, particularly when lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and medications have not yielded sustainable results. Common types of bariatric surgery include:
- Gastric sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy): This procedure removes a substantial portion of the stomach, limiting food intake.
- Gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass): This creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine.
- Mini gastric bypass and other metabolic procedures may also be considered based on individual health requirements.
Health Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
Major Health Benefits
Medical professionals stress that bariatric surgery is not merely a cosmetic solution. Its primary aim is to enhance health by mitigating obesity-related complications. Studies indicate that bariatric surgery can:
- Improve or even reverse Type 2 diabetes
- Lower high blood pressure
- Reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
- Enhance sleep apnea
- Alleviate joint pain by decreasing pressure on knees and hips
- Lower the risk of fatty liver disease
- Boost mobility, stamina, and overall quality of life
Ranatunga's newfound ability to bat for extended periods post-surgery highlights one of the most significant benefits reported by patients: increased physical endurance and improved fitness.
Eligibility for Bariatric Surgery
Who is Eligible?
Experts recommend bariatric surgery for adults who meet the following criteria:
- A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher
- A BMI of 35 or above along with obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, or obstructive sleep apnea
Prior to surgery, patients undergo comprehensive medical, nutritional, and psychological evaluations to assess the appropriateness of the procedure.
A Long-Term Commitment
It is Not an Easy Shortcut
Health experts warn that bariatric surgery should not be perceived as a quick solution. Long-term success relies on making permanent lifestyle changes, including adhering to a balanced, high-protein diet, taking prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements, exercising regularly, attending routine medical check-ups, and maintaining healthy eating habits for life. Without these adjustments, patients risk regaining weight and developing nutritional deficiencies.
Inspiring Conversations on Obesity
Ranatunga's Transformation Inspires Conversations Around Obesity
During his cricketing career, Arjuna Ranatunga's robust physique was one of his defining traits. Although he was not known for his speed between the wickets, he relied on his exceptional game awareness, timing, and leadership to lead Sri Lanka to its historic 1996 Cricket World Cup victory. Today, his striking transformation serves as a reminder that obesity is a chronic medical condition, not merely a cosmetic issue, and that effective treatment can greatly enhance health, mobility, and quality of life. As fans celebrate the cricket legend's new appearance, medical professionals hope this discussion fosters greater awareness about obesity management and the transformative role bariatric surgery can play for appropriately selected patients.