Sri Lankan fast bowler who played international cricket from 2000 to 2016, taking over 100 wickets in both Tests and ODIs. Known for his pace and ability to take wickets on flat pitches.
Dilhara Fernando is a former professional Sri Lankan international cricketer, renowned for his unique slower ball technique, where he splits his fingers on the ball as it's released. This exceptional skill has made him a key member of the Sri Lankan teams that finished as runners-up in the 2007 and 2011 Cricket World Cups.
Born on July 19, 1979, in Sri Lanka, Dilhara Fernando began his cricketing journey, making his Twenty20 debut on August 17, 2004, for Sinhalese Sports Club in the SLC Twenty20 Tournament. In 2008, he briefly played English county cricket, representing Worcestershire in one County Championship and two Pro40 matches.
Fernando made his Test debut for Sri Lanka in June 2000 against Pakistan at Colombo. Just six months later, in a game at Durban, he clocked an impressive 91.9 mph. He went on to achieve speeds of 93.40 mph against Bangladesh in India. His international career was, however, affected by injuries, including two stress fractures of the back that kept him out of the home series against Australia in 2004.
In the 2010 tour of Australia, Fernando's pace reached new heights, clocking speeds of 150 km/h (93 mph) in the 3rd and final ODI at the Gabba. One of his most memorable performances came on October 13, 2007, when he took career-best bowling figures of 6 for 27 against England, helping Sri Lanka win by 107 runs. This feat placed him 5th in the list of best ODI bowling by a Sri Lankan.
Fernando's unique skillset and impressive pace made him an integral part of the Sri Lankan team. His performances in the 2007 Cricket World Cup, particularly against England, where he guided the team to a thrilling 2-run win, are still remembered by fans. By the end of his career, Fernando had claimed 158 ODI wickets, ranking him among the top Sri Lankan bowlers.
Fernando's innovative slower ball technique has influenced a generation of pace bowlers, inspiring them to experiment with unorthodox methods. His accomplishments on the field have also made him an inspiration to young cricketers in Sri Lanka and beyond. As a testament to his enduring legacy, Fernando remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in Sri Lankan cricket.
While Fernando's cricketing career has been well-documented, little is known about his personal life. However, it is evident that his dedication to the sport has earned him a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. His charitable contributions and philanthropic efforts, although not widely publicized, are a testament to his commitment to giving back to the community.
54 Years Old
A Sri Lankan cricketer widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of the sport, known for his unorthodox style and record-breaking wickets. He is a legendary figure in the cricket world, celebrated for his incredible skills and achievements.
49 Years Old
A Sri Lankan cricket legend and former captain, renowned for his exceptional batting skills and record-breaking centuries in international cricket.
49 Years Old
A Sri Lankan cricket legend and captain, renowned for his exceptional batting skills and strategic leadership, leading his team to numerous victories and earning him a place among the all-time greats.
57 Years Old
A legendary Sri Lankan cricketer and politician, known for his aggressive batting style and record-breaking scores in One Day Internationals. He also served as a member of the Sri Lankan parliament.
62 Years Old
A Sri Lankan cricket legend and politician who led his country to a historic Cricket World Cup victory in 1996 and later served as a government minister. He's a national hero and iconic figure in Sri Lankan sports and politics.
61 Years Old
A legendary Sri Lankan cricketer who dominated the sport in the 1990s, leading his team to World Cup victory in 1996 and earning a reputation as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
52 Years Old
A legendary Sri Lankan fast bowler and coach, renowned for his exceptional swing bowling and impressive wicket-taking record, particularly in the early 2000s.
43 Years Old
Sri Lanka's most successful fast bowler, known for his unorthodox action and ability to take wickets on any surface, with a record 4 hat-tricks in international cricket.
