Nipun Dananjaya

Born on 28 September 2000, Nipun Dananjaya turned heads from a young age with his natural flair for cricket, emerging from the cricketing precincts of Colombo as a talent to watch. This young batsman embarked on his journey into the sport through the vibrant school cricket circuit in Sri Lanka, where his left-handed prowess at the crease made him a standout performer. Hailing from a cricket-loving family, Nipun found mentorship among his local coaches who spotted not only raw talent but an undeterred spirit that set him apart.

Dananjaya’s professional debut was a seamless transition owing to his impressive performances with the Under-19 national team, where he played pivotal roles in leading his team to decisive victories. Earmarked early on as a future stalwart for the national team, 2019 saw Nipun making his debut in first-class cricket. His batting style, characterised by elegant strokes and a calm demeanour, often drew comparisons with legendary left-handed batsmen.

His journey in international cricket began with aplomb as he quickly climbed the ranks. His ability to play long, patient innings, interspersed with an array of attacking shots, signalled a maturing cricketer with a heady mix of aggression and composure. Although primarily known for his batting, Nipun’s right-arm offbreak bowling has occasionally provided vital breakthroughs, adding a valuable dimension to his game.

Among the defining moments of Dananjaya's career was his performance in the 2022 Test series against Australia. Here, he showcased his mettle under pressure, scripting a memorable century that salvaged a draw in a seemingly impossible scenario. His clashes with Australia's fiery pace attack became the highlight of the series, and the towering six he struck against one of their leading fast bowlers etched his innings into cricketing folklore.

Nipun’s rivalry with arch-rivals India has also been a narrative fuelled by his consistent scoring against them. His innings in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he anchored a spectacular chase, further cemented his reputation as a clutch player.

A blend of technical precision and charismatic flair, Nipun Dananjaya, armed with his bat and occasional bowl, continues to mesmerise fans and foe alike. His cricketing journey, while still unfolding, is already rich with moments that underline his impact on the game and promise a significant legacy in the years to come.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats