Susantha Fernando

Born on a serene Valentine's Day in 1984, Susantha Fernando emerged from the verdant suburbs of Colombo, Sri Lanka, to craft an indelible mark on the cricketing world. His journey was anything but straightforward, fuelled by a tenacious spirit and an insatiable hunger for the game. Young Susantha was often seen clambering over makeshift pitches in his neighbourhood, his hands gripping a bat with awe-inspiring promise. By the age of 12, his cricketing potential was undeniable; he was already standing out in school tournaments with his all-round magic.

Fernando's professional debut came in 2003, when he joined the ranks of Colombo's domestic circuit, a move that set him on a golden path. As an allrounder, he was as reliable with the bat as he was with the ball, seamlessly switching between ferocious drives and nimble footwork, thriving under pressure. His bowling, a delightful mix of pace and spin, left many a batsman guessing, earning him accolades and bewilderment in equal measure.

Several records tumbled in the wake of Fernando's career. His remarkable century and five-wicket haul in a pivotal final for Colombo during the 2007 Inter-Provincial Championship is still etched in the annals of Sri Lankan domestic cricket. In international circuits, his gritty half-century against India in the 2011 Asia Cup showcased not just his skill but a rare adaptability, as he tackled the seamers on a green top with poise before launching against the spinners in a masterclass of strategic gameplay.

Fernando's encounters with arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been nothing short of electric, typifying the fierce South Asian cricketing rivalries. One cannot overlook the 2012 Colombo Test against Pakistan, where his crucial last-over bowling heroics sealed a thrilling win for Sri Lanka, sparking celebrations across the island nation.

Known for his boundless versatility, Susantha Fernando's batting is an art form, painted with patience and aggression, while his bowling is both a strategic puzzle and an assault. Yet, it's perhaps his unseen moments that have left the deepest imprints—like when he rallied a beleaguered Sri Lankan team during the 2015 World Cup quarter-final, inspiring an entire generation back home with a spirited speech that still reverberates through cricketing lore.

Though the dust has started to settle on Susantha Fernando's career, his legacy—a tapestry woven with grit, talent, and unforgettable cricketing tales—will linger, enriching the sport he so passionately embodies.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats