Tharindu Akalanka

Tharindu Akalanka, born on the first day of the new millennium in Colombo, Sri Lanka, grew up surrounded by the vibrant hum of cricket. From the narrow lanes of his neighbourhood to the expansive playgrounds of his school, his journey is one marked by grit, passion, and a natural flair that caught the eye of many even in his youngest years. Tharindu picked up his first cricket bat at the tender age of six and never put it down. His early coaches remember him not just for his skill but for a competitive spirit that belied his youthful demeanour.

Akalanka's journey through the local leagues was rapid, with his exceptional batting skills and a wide, almost uncanny, range of strokes making him stand out. His ability to adapt his style to the situation at hand soon became a talking point. Known for his fearless cover drives and delicate flicks, Tharindu’s batting style was both a textbook case of classical cricketing technique and an illustration of innovative modern batting. In the under-19 circuits, he emerged not just as a batsman, but also a versatile player who, while primarily shining with the bat, developed nifty off-spin as a surprise element in his toolkit, regularly outsmarting opponents in tight situations.

In 2019, at just 19, Tharindu made his professional debut for the national team. His performances on home soil and in overseas tours were remarkable for their consistency. One of the most memorable highlights of his career was during an electrifying Test match against England in Galle, where his crucial knock of 85 in challenging conditions helped seal a spectacular victory. That innings signified his arrival on the world stage and served as a prelude to a glorious career ahead.

Among his many achievements, leading his team to victory in the Asia Cup 2024 stands out. Tharindu played a pivotal role in the final against India, his arch-rival team, where his unbeaten century was the pillar on which Sri Lanka’s success was built. This match nurtured a fierce rivalry with the Indian team, often seeing him step up as a key performer during high-pressure games.

A role model to many young aspiring cricketers, Tharindu Akalanka continues to wield his bat with a strong sense of purpose and determination, leaving an indelible mark on the sport with every boundary he strikes and every wicket he cunningly takes. His journey is an epic of perseverance and natural talent, a tale that continues to unravel with every game he plays.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats