A solid opening-batsman, Paranavitana has had a somewhat modest career so far in the Test side, averaging 32.58 from 32 appearances.
Like many of his teammates, Paranavitana excelled in the Sri Lankan Premier League.
His performances for Sinhalese SC saw the side win the 2007/08 title. 893 runs at an impressive 74.41 saw him take out the Player-of-the-Series award.
His three hundreds included a personal best 236 led to his eventual introduction to Test cricket in 2009.
It was a less than impressive debut for Paranavitana. In fact, it was one he would rather forget.
His first innings in Test cricket lasted just one ball, before edging to the slips.
His second knock was a slight improvement, but it was cut short when he was run out for just nine.
The following season saw a vast change in fortunes, with the opener hitting centuries in back-to-back matches against India.
His maiden ton came in Galle, with Paranavitana backing up the 111 with another stylish 100 one week later.