Nationality: Malta
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Date of Birth: 1985-04-04 Age: 40
Michael Goonetilleke's cricketing journey is a tapestry woven with dedication, skill, and a touch of artistry. Born on the 4th of April, 1985, in a small town known for its vibrant cricket culture, Goonetilleke's tryst with the sport began in the dusty lanes outside his home. Fascinated by the simplicity and elegance of batting, young Michael spent countless hours refining his right-handed stroke play against makeshift wickets.
As Michael moved through his teenage years, his talent caught the attention of scouts, and he soon found himself part of a local club's youth setup. His remarkable ability to anchor innings and build crucial partnerships led to his professional debut at just 20 years old. From the outset, his batting spoke volumes—precise yet aggressive, a balance that became his hallmark.
Goonetilleke's professional career soared with his contribution to a memorable championship victory in 2010. His innings of 178 against a formidable opponent in the final match became legendary, marking him as a cricketer of considerable prowess. Over the years, Michael's consistency has seen him amass over 10,000 runs in domestic circuits—an achievement reflecting his mastery at the crease.
Perhaps equally captivating is Goonetilleke's bowling. While primarily a batsman, his versatile bowling skills allowed him to break partnerships with surprising regularity. His ability to adapt, switching from medium pace to off-spin as circumstances demanded, frequently left opponents guessing.
Among the myriad of matches etched into his career, one notable contest against a long-standing rival team stands out—an encounter where his centuries in both innings saw his team snatch an improbable draw. This performance not only set the stage for an intense rivalry but also showcased Michael’s mental fortitude and cricketing genius.
Goonetilleke’s style is a picturesque blend of traditional technique and modern flair. His footwork is often described as nimble; his cover drives, executed with surgical precision, have become something of a signature. Off the field, Michael remains affable and grounded, known for his joyous renditions of cricket anecdotes.
Michael Goonetilleke’s influence on the game is unmistakable. His elegant approach has inspired a generation of cricketers in his hometown and beyond, ensuring his legacy as a sportsman who played the game with passion and integrity, leaving indelible marks on cricket’s storied history.
Batting Stats
| Format | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | BF | SR | 100s | 50s | 6s | 4s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T10 | 59 | 47 | 12 | 599 | 44 | 12.74 | 483 | 124.02 | 0 | 0 | 17 | 67 |
| T20I | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Bowling Stats
| Format | Mat | Inns | Wkts | Runs | Overs | Ave | Econ | Wide | NoBall | 4w | 5w | 10w |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T10 | 19 | 3 | 2 | 67 | 5 | 33.50 | 13.40 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| T20I | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Last updated: 2025-05-02
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