Malinda rewarded for consistency
Left-arm spinner Malinda Pushpakumara 29, has been knocking on the door for quite a sometime with some outstanding performances in First-class cricket for many years.
But a National call has been eluded him for many years until his recent exploits for Sri Lanka ‘A’ changed his fortunes. The consistency with which he bowled for Sri Lanka ‘A’ against England Lions in the two-match unofficial Tests forced the cricket selectors to push him for the senior squad for the two-match series starting today (7) in Galle.
He took a match-winning 13 for 205 for Sri Lanka ‘A’ in the second 4-day game and eight in the First Test.however, there’s little chance of Pushpakaumara making his Test debut in this series given that Sri Lanka is led by one of the leg-spinning greats Rangana Herath but for the former Lumbini College cricketer getting selected for the squad itself is a huge achievement.
“I was waiting for this opportunity. Each time I performed well in domestic cricket I thought I will get a call from the selectors. But it eluded me for many years not because I am not a good enough bowler for international cricket but because we had a great leg-spinner in Rangana Herath doing the job for the country” said Pushpakumara soon after a practice session at the Galle International Cricket Stadium.
“I don’t think there’s any room for two specialist leg-spinners in the side and I am well aware of it. But like I said this is a great opportunity for me to be part of the National Team share the same passion that these great cricketers share.”
Pushpakumara who represents Chilaw Marians CC in domestic cricket has taken 558 First-class wickets at an average of 19.85, and is routinely among the top-three wicket-takers in the Premier League Tournament.
“I have repeatedly proved myself as a cricketer in Firstclass cricket but I know for a fact that there’s a big difference between domestic and international cricket. But given my experience and the control with which I bowl, I believe I am ready to take the next step in my career. Like I said I may not get a chance in this series but I am waiting for that chance to go and perform for my country,” he explained.
With Rangana Herath, 38, closing on his career, there’s a greater chance that Pushpakumara making his debut sooner than later and with a great first-class record behind him, he may be the perfect find to replace Herath.
“He is a great bowler and I am nowhere near him. I don’t think I can replace him in the side but in my own way, I will try to carry on with what he has left. It’s a long journey but I am very much optimistic,” he concluded.