description: “In the echelons of international women’s cricket, few names resonate with the same intensity and respect as Inoka Ranaweera. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Sri Lanka, Ranaweera has etched her name in the annals of cricketing history with her masterful left-arm spin bowling. This article delves into the life and career of Inoka Ranaweera, exploring her journey from the humble beginnings in the small town of Warakapola to becoming a celebrated cricketer on the global stage. A figure of inspiration and a symbol of cricketing excellence, Ranaweera’s story is one of determination, skill, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Join us as we unfold the tale of this remarkable athlete, a true gem in Sri Lanka’s sporting crown.”
Inoka Ranaweera Batting Career Stats
Format | Mat | Inns | Balls | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Ave | Econ | SR | 4w | 5w | 10w |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
WODIs | 73 | 70 | 3229 | 2398 | 75 | 4/39 | 4/39 | 31.97 | 4.45 | 43.0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
WT20Is | 78 | 78 | 1606 | 1547 | 88 | 4/7 | 4/7 | 17.57 | 5.77 | 18.2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Bowling Career Stats
Format | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | BF | SR | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s | Ct | St |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
WODIs | 73 | 48 | 24 | 210 | 32* | 8.75 | 564 | 37.23 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 | 13 | 0 |
WT20Is | 78 | 29 | 18 | 63 | 18* | 5.72 | 135 | 46.66 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 11 | 0 |
Career Information
WODI debut vs India 12.04.2012
Last WODI vs India 07.07.2022
WT20I debut vs India 26.09.2012
Last WT20I vs England 06.09.2023
Biography
Inoka Ranaweera, a left-arm orthodox spinner hailing from the verdant landscapes of Sri Lanka, began her journey in the world of cricket in the rural heartlands of her country. Born on February 18, 1986, in Warakapola, a small town known for its rich cultural heritage, Inoka grew up in an environment where cricket was more than just a sport; it was a way of life. Her early years were marked by a deep passion for the game, often playing with her friends on the dusty fields that dotted her hometown. This early exposure to cricket not only honed her skills but also ignited a burning desire to excel in this sport.
Inoka’s educational journey paralleled her cricketing aspirations. She attended St. Anthony’s Girls’ School in Kandy, a city renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance in Sri Lanka. At St. Anthony’s, Inoka’s cricketing talents didn’t go unnoticed. She quickly became a part of the school cricket team, making significant contributions with her distinctive left-arm spin. Her time at school was instrumental in shaping her as a cricketer, as she received her initial formal training in the sport. Balancing academics and cricket, Inoka demonstrated an early aptitude for multitasking, a skill that would greatly benefit her future cricketing career.
Cricket Career of Inoka Ranaweera
Inoka Ranaweera, with a career that stands out in Sri Lankan women’s cricket, has achieved remarkable feats as a slow left-arm orthodox bowler. Her journey in international cricket began with both One Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) formats, showcasing her versatility and skill. A notable highlight of her career was in November 2015, during an ODI against New Zealand. Ranaweera delivered an exceptional performance by taking three wickets off the last three balls of the innings, marking her as the first Sri Lankan woman to achieve an ODI hat-trick.
Ranaweera’s prowess in the field was recognized with the Sri Lanka Cricket award for the Women’s ODI Bowler of the Year in 2016 and 2017, affirming her status as a leading bowler in the national team. Her skills continued to be a crucial asset for Sri Lanka in international tournaments. In October 2021, she was a key player in Sri Lanka’s squad for the 2021 Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier held in Zimbabwe. Following this, in January 2022, she was named in the team for the 2022 Commonwealth Games Cricket Qualifier in Malaysia. Further cementing her role in the national team, in July 2022, Ranaweera was selected for the cricket tournament at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England.
Throughout her career, Ranaweera has played in 73 Women’s ODI matches, taking 75 wickets with a best bowling figure of 4/39. Her T20I career includes 78 matches with 88 wickets, boasting an impressive best bowling figure of 4/7. These statistics highlight her consistent performance and ability to deliver under pressure, making her one of the most reliable bowlers in Sri Lankan women’s cricket. Her journey from a passionate youngster playing in the fields of Warakapola to a celebrated cricketer on the international stage is a testament to her dedication and skill in the sport.
Marital Status, Hobby
Inoka Ranaweera, a celebrated cricketer from Sri Lanka, maintains a private life that is quite guarded from the public eye. As of the available information, Ranaweera is currently single and has not been previously engaged or married. Consequently, there are no details available regarding her having any children. Her family background, including information about her parents or siblings, remains undisclosed, reflecting her preference for keeping her personal life away from the limelight.
Regarding her hobbies, interests, or religious beliefs, there is a noticeable lack of information in the public domain. Ranaweera, like many athletes, appears to focus the public’s attention on her professional achievements and cricket career, keeping her personal interests and beliefs private. This discretion is not uncommon among athletes, especially in regions where personal privacy is highly valued. As a result, any discussion about her hobbies or religious beliefs would be speculative without concrete information from reliable sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Inoka Ranaweera’s journey in the world of cricket is a compelling narrative of resilience, skill, and unwavering dedication. Her achievements, marked by record-breaking performances and consistent contributions to Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team, have not only elevated her status as an elite athlete but also inspired a new generation of cricketers. Ranaweera’s legacy transcends the boundaries of the cricket field, serving as a beacon of inspiration for young girls and women in sports, particularly in a landscape where female athletes are increasingly claiming their rightful place in the spotlight.
As we reflect on Ranaweera’s illustrious career, it is evident that her impact on cricket goes beyond the wickets taken or the matches won. It lies in the way she has carried herself, both on and off the field – with dignity, professionalism, and a deep love for the game. Inoka Ranaweera is not just a cricketer; she is a symbol of empowerment, a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship, and an enduring icon in the annals of Sri Lankan cricket. Her story is one that will continue to inspire and resonate with sports enthusiasts and aspiring athletes for generations to come.