Pathum Kumara

Pathum Kumara, born on the 23rd of April 1999 in Sri Lanka, emerged into the cricketing world with an unwavering dedication that traces back to his early childhood days in the bustling city of Colombo. From a tender age, Kumara was often seen with a cricket bat in hand and a determination mirrored by few of his peers. His early endeavours quickly transitioned to the more formal setting of youth leagues, where his remarkable skills as a wicketkeeper began to shine.

Kumara's journey took a decisive turn when he was just 17, making waves in the national U-19 tournaments with his dexterous glove work behind the stumps and a promising right-hand bat. It was in these formative years that his adaptability in bowling, though not his primary role, began to add an extra layer to his cricketing prowess, turning him into a versatile threat on the field.

By the time of his professional debut, Kumara was already a name to watch out for. His entry into the national team in the 2018 series against Pakistan marked the beginning of a career peppered with achievements. Among his crowning moments was a pivotal test series against India where his incredible reflexes and lightning-fast stumpings turned the tide for his team in crucial situations.

Kumara's contributions extend beyond numbers and into the intangible domain of team spirit and resilience. One of his career-defining matches came during the Asia Cup finals of 2021. Facing an intimidating score set by arch-rivals Bangladesh, Kumara’s half-century stood out not just for the runs scored, but for the grittiness and leadership he exuded under intense pressure, ultimately leading his team to a narrow and memorable victory.

His playing style, characterised by a classic right-handed batting technique, belies an aggressive undercurrent that often left oppositions scrambling for answers. Despite wicketkeeping being his forte, his occasional forays into bowling provided his captains with strategic flexibility, showcasing his versatility and a flair for the unexpected that opponents found hard to predict.

Kumara’s career has been punctuated by moments that highlight not merely his skill, but his passion for the game and his influence on it. Often seen rallying his team after dramatic dismissals, his influence stretches beyond the boundary ropes, leaving an indelible impact on Sri Lankan cricket and a legacy that continues to inspire budding cricketers across the island.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats