A Sri Lankan cricketer turned umpire, known for his impressive on-field career and later becoming a respected umpire, officiating in numerous international matches. He's a household name in the cricket world, especially in Asia.
Kumar Dharmasena is a name synonymous with cricket excellence, being the first person to participate in an ICC Cricket World Cup final both as a player and an umpire. This remarkable achievement has etched his name in the annals of cricket history, making him a household name in the cricketing world.
Born on 24 April 1971, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Dharmasena's tryst with cricket began at a tender age. He attended Nalanda College, Colombo, where he honed his cricketing skills, eventually making his way into the international cricket arena.
Dharmasena's cricketing career spanned over a decade, during which he played a significant role in Sri Lanka's cricketing triumphs. He made his Test debut in 1993 against South Africa and went on to play 31 Tests and 141 One-Day Internationals (ODIs). A right-handed batsman and a right-arm off-break bowler, Dharmasena was an asset to the Sri Lankan team, known for his unorthodox action.
One of his most notable achievements was winning the 1996 Cricket World Cup with the Sri Lankan team. Dharmasena's contributions to the team were invaluable, and his obscure bowling action made him a valuable asset in one-day matches. He also holds the record for playing the most number of ODI innings before being dismissed for a duck, with an impressive 72 innings.
Following his retirement as a cricketer in 2006, Dharmasena announced his plans to become a competitive umpire. He had already umpired several domestic matches in the Sara Trophy, the major first-class cricket tournament in Sri Lanka, prior to his retirement.
He umpired his first international match in 2009, overseeing the ODI between India and Sri Lanka at the Rangiri International Stadium in Dambulla. Dharmasena's umpiring career has been nothing short of remarkable, earning him a place in the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires.
Dharmasena's impressive cricketing career and umpiring skills have earned him numerous awards and recognition. He has received the prestigious Deshabandu title, a national honor conferred by the Sri Lankan government for his services to cricket.
Kumar Dharmasena's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the cricketing world. His unique feat of participating in an ICC Cricket World Cup final both as a player and an umpire has inspired generations of cricketers and umpires alike.
As a cricketer, Dharmasena's unorthodox action and valuable contributions to the Sri Lankan team have made him a legend in his own right. As an umpire, his fairness, integrity, and expertise have earned him the respect of players and fans worldwide.
Kumar Dharmasena's story is one of dedication, passion, and perseverance, serving as an inspiration to anyone who has ever picked up a cricket bat or ball.
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.
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.
60 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.
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.
56 Years Old
A pioneering wicket-keeper-batsman who revolutionized the role with his aggressive batting style and impressive glovework. He's most known for his explosive opening partnerships with Sanath Jayasuriya in the 1990s.
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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.
