Thisara Perera

Thisara Perera, a name synonymous with Sri Lankan cricket, epitomizes the spirit and dynamism of a modern all-rounder. Born on 3 April 1989 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Perera’s journey in international cricket is a compelling tale of talent, determination, and impactful performances. Known for his aggressive batting style and adept medium-fast bowling, Perera has carved a niche for himself in the world of cricket, becoming a crucial member of the Sri Lankan national team, especially in the limited-overs formats. His ability to turn games around, either with a swift batting onslaught or a crucial bowling spell, has earned him a reputation as a game-changer, a tag that few cricketers manage to attain in their careers.

Off the field, Perera’s life reflects a blend of personal commitment and national pride. His early marriage to Sherami Dinulshika at the age of eighteen showcases his stable and mature personal life, a contrast to the often tumultuous lifestyle associated with international sports stars. Moreover, his commission as a Major in the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, attached to the Gajaba Regiment, underscores his dedication to his country beyond the cricketing arena. This aspect of his life adds an admirable layer to his persona, highlighting his multifaceted character. As we delve into the life and career of Thisara Perera, we uncover not just an accomplished cricketer but also a man of deep commitment and patriotic fervor.

Thisara Perera Batting Career Statistic

Bowling Career Statistic

Career Information

Test debut vs England at Sophia Gardens, May 26, 2011

Last Test vs Pakistan at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Jul 08, 2012

ODI debut vs India at Eden Gardens, Dec 24, 2009

Last ODI vs West Indies at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Mar 14, 2021

T20 debut vs Zimbabwe at Providence Stadium, May 03, 2010

Last T20 vs West Indies at Coolidge Cricket Ground, Mar 07, 2021

IPL debut vs Mumbai Indians at Brabourne Stadium, Mar 25, 2010

Last IPL vs Punjab Kings at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, May 21, 2016

Biography - Early Years and Education

Thisara Perera, a prominent figure in the world of cricket, was born on April 3, 1989, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. His early life was steeped in the rich cricketing culture of Sri Lanka, a nation where the sport is more than just a game; it’s a part of the very fabric of daily life. From a young age, Perera was surrounded by the sights and sounds of cricket, which undoubtedly played a pivotal role in nurturing his love for the game.

Growing up in a supportive family environment, Perera’s talent in cricket was evident from a young age. His parents, recognizing his potential, encouraged him to pursue the sport seriously. This supportive backdrop was crucial in shaping his early cricketing journey. Perera attended St. Anthony’s College in Wattala, a school known for its strong emphasis on sports, particularly cricket. Here, he received not just an education in the traditional academic sense, but also a deep-rooted understanding and appreciation for the game of cricket.

During his school years, Perera’s cricketing skills flourished. He became a notable player in the school cricket team, showcasing an all-round prowess that would later become his trademark in professional cricket. His performances in various school-level matches were a clear indicator of a budding cricketing talent. This phase of his life was instrumental in laying the groundwork for his future in the sport. It was here that he learned the nuances of the game, honed his skills, and developed the discipline and dedication required to excel in cricket.

Perera’s education and early cricketing experiences set the stage for his later achievements. His journey from the school cricket fields of Wattala to the international cricketing arena is a testament to his hard work, talent, and the unwavering support of his family and coaches. This formative phase of his life not only shaped him as a cricketer but also instilled in him the values and character that he carried throughout his career.

Career Journey

Thisara Perera embarked on his international cricket journey with Sri Lanka in December 2009, making a surprise entry in an ODI against India in Kolkata. His first major achievement came in August 2010 when he claimed a five-wicket haul in an ODI victory over India, also earning him the player of the match title. During the same series, he replicated this performance against Australia.

Perera was an integral part of the Sri Lankan squad during the 2011 Cricket World Cup held in Sri Lanka, India, and Bangladesh. He played a notable role in the final against India, contributing 22 runs not out and capturing Gautam Gambhir’s wicket. Although not initially chosen for the Test series against Pakistan later that year, he continued to be a vital member of the ODI and Twenty20 teams, and was later recalled for the Test series in South Africa. His ODI skills shone particularly in Kimberley, where he scored an unbeaten 69, aiding Sri Lanka’s victory.

In the 2012 ODI series against Pakistan, Perera’s exceptional late-order batting led him to become the first Sri Lankan to take six wickets in an ODI against Pakistan, a career highlight. He also achieved a hat-trick in the series, becoming the first Sri Lankan to do so against Pakistan.

Perera holds the Sri Lankan record for the highest ODI score when batting at number 9 or lower, with an unbeaten 80 runs. His notable ODI century against New Zealand in 2019 set records for the fastest century against New Zealand in ODIs and the most sixes by a Sri Lankan batsman in an ODI.

In his Test career, despite a modest start against England at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Perera showed resilience and skill in subsequent series, notably during the tour of South Africa.

In the T20 international arena, Perera debuted in May 2010 and played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s first World T20I title in 2014. His hat-trick against India in 2016 marked him as the fourth overall and the first Sri Lankan to achieve this feat in a T20I. He also holds the record for the highest individual score for Sri Lanka when batting at number 7 or lower in T20Is.

As a captain, Perera led Sri Lanka in T20I and ODI matches against India in 2017, displaying strategic acumen and contributing significantly on the field.

Outside his international commitments, Perera has been a prominent figure in domestic and franchise cricket. He debuted in List A and first-class cricket for the Colts Cricket Club and has been part of various teams in domestic tournaments. In T20 leagues, he has been associated with teams like Chennai Super Kings, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, and Rising Pune Supergiants in the IPL, and has played in the Global T20 Canada, Afghanistan Premier League, Bangladesh Premier League, and Lanka Premier League.

Perera announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket in May 2021, a decision influenced by various factors including a pay dispute with the Sri Lanka Cricket Board. His career has been marked by remarkable performances and significant contributions to Sri Lankan cricket.

Play Style

Thisara Perera’s play style in international cricket can be characterized as dynamic and impactful, both with bat and ball. Known for his aggressive batting, Perera possesses the ability to change the course of a game within a few overs. His batting style is predominantly aggressive, characterized by powerful striking and a propensity for hitting big sixes. This approach is particularly effective in the limited-overs formats, where his ability to score quickly makes him a valuable asset in the lower middle-order. Perera’s knack for hitting boundaries, especially under pressure, has led to several match-winning performances for Sri Lanka.

As a bowler, Perera is a skilled medium-fast bowler known for his ability to swing the ball and generate seam movement. While he might not be the fastest bowler on the team, his variations in pace and ability to bowl yorkers at crucial moments have made him an effective limited-overs bowler. He has the knack for taking key wickets, often breaking crucial partnerships and stifling the scoring rate of the opposition. His bowling has been particularly effective in ODIs, as evidenced by his multiple five-wicket hauls.

Perera’s all-round abilities extend to his fielding as well. He is known to be an athletic fielder with a strong arm, capable of pulling off spectacular catches and effecting crucial run-outs. His fielding prowess complements his bowling and batting, making him a complete package in the limited-overs formats.

Personal Life

Thisara Perera’s personal life is marked by significant milestones that reflect his commitment both on and off the cricket field. At a young age of eighteen, Perera married his girlfriend, Sherami Dinulshika. This early commitment to marriage is indicative of Perera’s personal stability and the value he places on family and close relationships. Such a step at a young age, particularly for a sportsperson in the limelight, showcases a maturity and a sense of responsibility that perhaps also translates into his on-field persona as a cricketer.

In addition to his personal and professional cricketing achievements, Perera’s life took a notable turn in October 2020 when he was commissioned as a Major in the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, specifically attached to the prestigious Gajaba Regiment. This commission is a significant honor and reflects Perera’s dedication to his country beyond the cricket field. The Gajaba Regiment is one of the most respected infantry regiments in the Sri Lanka Army, and Perera’s association with it speaks volumes about his character and the respect he commands in Sri Lanka.

Being a part of the military, even in a volunteer capacity, requires discipline, a strong sense of duty, and a commitment to serve the nation. These qualities are likely reflective of Perera’s own values and principles. His involvement with the military adds another dimension to his personality, indicating a depth of character and a willingness to serve his country in more ways than one.

Overall, Perera’s personal life, marked by his early marriage and his commission in the Sri Lanka Army, paints a picture of a man deeply rooted in commitment, responsibility, and national pride. These aspects of his life complement his dynamic cricketing career, showing him to be a well-rounded individual with a strong sense of personal and national duty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Thisara Perera’s career in international cricket is not just a story of sporting prowess but also one of personal growth and national service. His journey from a promising young cricketer to a key player in the Sri Lankan cricket team reflects his hard work, talent, and relentless dedication. On the field, Perera’s explosive batting, strategic bowling, and agile fielding have made him an invaluable asset to his team. Off the field, his early marriage and his role in the Sri Lankan Army speak volumes about his character and commitment to his personal life and his country.

Perera’s legacy extends beyond his statistical achievements in cricket. He symbolizes the spirit of a true sportsman - resilient, adaptable, and always ready to contribute to his team’s success. As he continues to leave his mark in the world of cricket, Perera remains an inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a role model for those who seek to balance professional excellence with personal integrity and national duty. His story is a testament to the fact that success is not just about individual accolades but also about the impact one has on their team, community, and country.