Kulasekara Mudiyanselage Dinesh Nuwan Kulasekara, popularly known as Nuwan Kulasekara, is a former professional cricket player from Sri Lanka. Born on July 22, 1982, in Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka, Kulasekara made an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional bowling skills and his ability to contribute valuable runs in the lower order.
Kulasekara’s journey in cricket began when he joined the Nugegoda Cricket Club, where he honed his skills and developed a deep passion for the game. With a bustling run-up and a whippy open-chested action, he showcased remarkable talent in generating lively pace and moving the ball off the seam. His skill set was further enhanced by his ability to reverse-swing the ball, making him a formidable force on the field.
In November 2003, Kulasekara achieved a significant milestone when he made his One Day International (ODI) debut against England in Dambulla. Despite coming from relative obscurity, he left an instant impression. His tight line and length, coupled with his impeccable accuracy, made him a difficult bowler to face. This stellar performance earned him a place in the national team, marking the beginning of a promising career.
Kulasekara’s success did not end with his bowling prowess alone. He also displayed impressive batting skills, as demonstrated by his maiden test fifty against England at Lord’s in 2006. This showcased his natural talent and versatility as a cricketer, solidifying his position in the team as an all-rounder. However, during the same tour, his bowling lacked the desired penetration, resulting in a temporary omission from the squad for a period of eight months.
Ever resilient, Kulasekara dedicated himself to honing his craft. Recognizing the need for improvement, he worked tirelessly on his action, adding an extra yard of pace to his bowling. These efforts paid off when he secured a place in Sri Lanka’s World Cup squad, marking a remarkable comeback. As one of Sri Lanka’s premier strike bowlers, Kulasekara demonstrated exceptional skills, taking an astonishing 47 wickets in an 11-month period from April 2008. This impressive feat propelled him to the top of the ICC ODI rankings in March 2009, solidifying his status as one of the world’s finest cricketers.
Throughout his career, Kulasekara continued to contribute significantly to Sri Lankan cricket. With his unwavering determination and unwavering spirit, he played a vital role in various international tournaments, including multiple ICC Cricket World Cups. Kulasekara’s contributions on the field were highly regarded and admired by fans and fellow cricketers alike.
After an illustrious career, Nuwan Kulasekara bid farewell to cricket in July 2019, ending a remarkable journey that spanned more than a decade. His legacy as a proficient bowler, skillful batsman, and dedicated team player remains etched in Sri Lankan cricket history. Kulasekara’s immense talent and unwavering commitment to the sport have set a benchmark for future generations and serve as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers worldwide.
