Gallage Pramodya Wickramasinghe, fondly known as Pramodya Wickramasinghe, is a former Sri Lankan cricketer who made a significant contribution to his country’s cricketing success in the 1990s. Born on July 1, 1965, in Sri Lanka, Pramodya established himself as a reliable medium-fast bowler known for his accuracy and ability to move the ball in the air.
Pramodya’s cricketing journey began at Rahula College in Matara, where he received his education. His exceptional talent was soon recognized, and he went on to represent his school in various tournaments. His consistent performances with the ball attracted attention from cricketing circles, and it wasn’t long before he took his skills to the next level.
Making his mark in regional cricket, Pramodya played for the Sinhalese Sports Club in domestic competitions. In 1992, he achieved a remarkable feat by taking all ten wickets in an innings during a match against Kalutura YCC, finishing with exceptional figures of 10 for 41. This remarkable achievement highlighted his exceptional abilities as a bowler and garnered attention from national selectors.
Pramodya’s consistent performances brought him into the international arena, earning him a spot in the Sri Lankan national team. He made his Test debut against New Zealand in 1992, showcasing his accuracy and movement with the ball. Over the course of his Test career, he played a total of 23 matches, taking 59 wickets. One of his most memorable performances came in March 1995 when he played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s first overseas Test win against New Zealand, dismissing them for a mere 109 runs in Napier.
During his illustrious career, Pramodya Wickramasinghe represented his country in three World Cups, including the title-winning campaign in 1996. Although he didn’t have significant individual success in the tournament, his contributions and presence on the field played an essential role in Sri Lanka’s success, bringing home their maiden World Cup trophy.
In 2000, Pramodya faced a setback when he was forced to undergo shoulder surgery in Australia. His road to recovery was challenging, and upon his return, he struggled to cement his place in the national side. Despite this, his passion for the game remained unwavering.
After retiring from professional cricket, Pramodya Wickramasinghe found new avenues to contribute to Sri Lankan cricket. He ventured into administration and took up roles such as the chief selector of both the men’s and women’s national sides in 2021. His experience and deep understanding of the game made him a valuable asset in shaping the future of Sri Lankan cricket.
Pramodya Wickramasinghe’s legacy as a cricketer is imprinted in the annals of Sri Lankan cricket history. Known for his accuracy, movement, and valuable contributions to the team, he will always be remembered as a reliable medium-fast bowler who represented his country with pride. Through his achievements, Pramodya became an inspiration for aspiring cricketers in Sri Lanka and left an indelible mark on the sport.
