Manuja Chanthuka

Born on the 1st of January, 2005, Manuja Chanthuka has swiftly carved out a name for himself in the world of cricket with his allround capabilities. Emerging from the cricket-loving streets of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Chanthuka's journey into the professional sphere was as gritty as it was inspiring. From a young age, Manuja was the quintessential playground hero, known for his innate ability to bowl with deceptive pace and bat with flair, earning him a spot in the local youth teams.

Chanthuka made his professional debut at the age of 18, catching the eyes of selectors with his right-arm fast-medium bowling prowess. His deliveries, known for their cunning oscillation, have sent many a seasoned batsman back to the pavilion. His debut series was the springboard, where he delivered a brilliant 5-for against a top-ranked international team. Batting down the order, his right-handed strokes often surprised opponents, combining finesse with power, often bailing his team out of tight corners.

Major milestones in Chanthuka's career quickly followed. Contributing to Sri Lanka's Under-19 team's monumental victory in the ICC U19 World Cup, he was instrumental in securing key wickets and scoring crucial runs in the knockout stages. In domestic cricket, he set a record for the fastest century by an allrounder in the T20 format, playing a memorable innings that left spectators in awe and bowlers bewildered.

Perhaps one of the most defining periods of Chanthuka's career has been his rivalry with India's emerging allrounder, Ravi Verma. Their encounters were a treat for cricket enthusiasts, both players constantly pushing the envelope of their game. Memorable face-offs, such as their duel in the Asia Cup final where Chanthuka’s quick blitzkrieg of 60 runs off 30 balls in a high-pressure scenario left an indelible mark on fans and critics alike.

While his technical prowess is commendable, it's Chanthuka’s mental toughness and calm demeanour under duress that truly stand out. A remarkable moment was during a test series in England, where, with shadows lengthening and victory slipping away, his controlled and crucial spell turned the tide of the match.

Manuja Chanthuka’s journey from the local grounds of Colombo to the international arena exemplifies dedication and talent. His capacity to perform under pressure continues to not only entertain but also expand the horizons of his cricketing potential.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats