Mahela Lakmal Udawatte, the talented cricketer from Sri Lanka, has made a name for himself as a prolific run-getter and a power-hitting top-order batsman. Despite facing initial setbacks in his cricketing career, Udawatte’s determination and hard work helped him rise to prominence in the national and domestic cricket scene.
Born on October 2, 1987, in the bustling city of Colombo, Udawatte honed his cricketing skills at Ananda College. However, his exceptional batting talent was overlooked when he was not selected for the Sri Lankan Under-19 team in 2003, despite his impressive performance of scoring over 1000 runs in a single season for his school.
Undeterred by the setback, Udawatte joined Chilaw Marians SC after completing school. He was promoted to open the batting, a position he had not previously held, but he soon showcased his immense potential by scoring three centuries in just five matches during the 2004-2005 U-23 tournament. His outstanding performance caught the attention of selectors, earning him a place in the Development Squad.
Udawatte’s journey to success continued when he made it into the national A team for the tour of England in 2007. His inclusion was well-deserved after an impressive performance in the Premier final against SSC in the 2005-2006 season. In that final, he notched up a score of 67, making a significant contribution against a formidable bowling attack that included the likes of Dilhara Fernando and Nuwan Zoysa.
Known for his attacking style and ability to take on fast bowlers, Udawatte has been hailed as a future prospect for the Sri Lanka one-day side. Many experts in Sri Lanka, including former captain Mahela Jayawardene, have praised his skills and predicted a bright future for him. Some even speculate that he could be a potential replacement for the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya.
In recognition of his immense talent and consistent performances, Udawatte earned a call-up to the national squad for the tour of West Indies in 2008. Although he faced fierce competition for a spot in the playing XI, his selection was a testament to his determination and dedication to the sport.
Throughout his career, Udawatte has compiled an impressive record, with several notable contributions to Sri Lankan cricket. To date, he has scored over 5,000 runs across various formats of the game, including first-class and List A matches. His aggressive batting style, coupled with his ability to play both pace and spin, has made him a valuable asset in the Sri Lankan cricketing setup.
Off the field, Udawatte is known for his humility and down-to-earth nature. He continues to inspire young cricketers both within Sri Lanka and around the world, proving that with perseverance and hard work, one can overcome any obstacles and achieve success.
As Mahela Lakmal Udawatte’s career progresses, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await his future performances and hope to witness him reach greater heights in the realm of international cricket. With his talent, dedication, and the support of his teammates, Udawatte has the potential to become one of Sri Lanka’s cricketing legends.