Vishwa Fernando, a name that resonates with resilience and skill in the cricketing corridors of Sri Lanka, has carved out a niche for himself in the international cricket landscape. Born in the heart of Colombo on September 18, 1991, Fernando’s journey from the bustling streets of his hometown to the green pitches of international cricket encapsulates a tale of perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering passion for the sport. His left-arm fast-medium bowling, characterized by its skiddy action and commendable accuracy, has not only distinguished him in Sri Lanka’s cricketing ranks but also earned him recognition on the global stage.
Fernando’s cricketing saga is not just about the wickets and the matches; it’s a narrative of surmounting challenges and seizing opportunities. Despite facing stiff competition from a formidable fast-bowling lineup within the Sri Lankan team, Fernando’s breakthrough came as a testament to his undiminished spirit and skill. Marking his Test debut against Australia in 2016, he quickly proved his mettle, further fortifying his position in the subsequent formats of the game. His role in some of Sri Lanka’s most memorable victories, including the historic Test series win in South Africa, underscores his contribution to the team’s successes. Fernando’s story, a blend of athletic prowess and personal growth, continues to inspire aspiring cricketers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Vishwa Fernando Batting Career Stats
Format | M | Inn | NO | Runs | HS | Avg | BF | SR | 100 | 200 | 50 | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Test | 20 | 27 | 14 | 106 | 38 | 8.15 | 383 | 27.68 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 1 |
ODI | 8 | 8 | 6 | 30 | 7 | 15.0 | 61 | 49.18 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
T20I | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 2.0 | 2 | 100.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Bowling Career Stats
Format | M | Inn | B | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Econ | Avg | SR | 5W | 10W |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Test | 20 | 33 | 3042 | 1869 | 50 | 5/101 | 8/133 | 3.69 | 37.38 | 60.84 | 1 | 0 |
ODI | 8 | 8 | 297 | 337 | 5 | 1/35 | 1/35 | 6.81 | 67.4 | 59.4 | 0 | 0 |
T20I | 1 | 1 | 12 | 16 | 0 | 0/16 | 0/16 | 8.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 |
Career Information
Test debut vs Australia at Galle International Stadium, Aug 04, 2016
Last Test vs Pakistan at Galle International Stadium, Jul 16, 2023
ODI debut vs India at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Aug 20, 2017
Last ODI vs South Africa at SuperSport Park, Mar 06, 2019
T20 debut vs India at Barabati Stadium, Dec 20, 2017
Last T20 vs India at Barabati Stadium, Dec 20, 2017
Biography
Vishwa Fernando, a prominent Sri Lankan cricketer, has established himself as a significant figure in the cricketing world. Born on September 18, 1991, in Wadduwa, Sri Lanka, Fernando grew up in a country where cricket is not just a sport but a part of the cultural fabric. His early life was marked by a deep passion for the game, influenced by Sri Lanka’s rich cricketing history and the iconic status of the sport in the region.
Fernando’s education and early cricket training took place in an environment where cricket is revered and pursued with great enthusiasm. He attended a local school where he received his basic education. During his school years, Fernando’s talent in cricket became increasingly evident. He honed his skills in the sport, particularly in fast bowling, which later became his specialty. His school years played a crucial role in shaping his cricketing abilities, providing him with the foundational skills and discipline required for professional cricket.
As Fernando progressed through his educational journey, he continued to excel in cricket, representing his school in various matches and tournaments. This period was critical in his development as a cricketer, allowing him to gain valuable experience and exposure. His performances at the school level caught the attention of cricket coaches and selectors, setting the stage for his future career in professional cricket.
Fernando’s early life and education were instrumental in his journey to becoming a professional cricketer. They provided him with the platform to showcase his talent and laid the groundwork for his subsequent achievements in the sport.
Career Journey
Vishwa Fernando faced significant challenges in breaking into the international cricket scene due to Sri Lanka’s formidable fast bowling lineup. Despite being a consistent contender, opportunities for match play were limited. However, his chance arrived in 2016 when Sri Lanka’s primary fast bowlers - Dhammika Prasad, Nuwan Pradeep, Dushmantha Chameera, and Suranga Lakmal - were sidelined due to injuries. Fernando made his Test debut as the lead pacer in the second Test against Australia on August 4, 2016. He made an immediate impact, claiming the wicket of Joe Burns in his first over. Despite not bowling for the remainder of the match, as Sri Lankan spinners dominated by taking 19 wickets, Fernando’s debut was significant in Sri Lanka’s victory by 229 runs, securing the Warne-Muralitharan Trophy for the first time.
In August 2017, Fernando’s growing reputation led to his inclusion in Sri Lanka’s One Day International (ODI) squad for the series against India. He made his ODI debut on August 20, 2017, against India, and achieved his first ODI wicket in the third match by dismissing Virat Kohli. Following his ODI debut, Fernando was named in Sri Lanka’s Twenty20 International (T20I) squad for their series against Pakistan in October 2017, making his T20I debut against India in December of the same year. Though he bowled only two overs without a wicket in his T20I debut, his inclusion in these formats marked significant milestones in his career.
Fernando’s consistent performances led to him being awarded a national contract by Sri Lanka Cricket in May 2018, ahead of the 2018–19 season. This recognition was a testament to his growing importance in the national team setup.
Test Career
Fernando’s Test career saw a significant highlight in February 2019. He was called up for the second Test against Australia as a replacement for injured main pace bowlers. His most notable performance came against South Africa on February 16, 2019, where he formed a crucial 78-run partnership with Kusal Perera, contributing to a historic one-wicket victory. This partnership set a record for the highest last-wicket stand in a successful Test run chase. Fernando’s bowling was equally impressive, with four-wicket hauls in both innings.
In the second Test at Port Elizabeth, Fernando continued his impressive form, dismissing Hashim Amla for a golden duck and ending the match with four wickets. Sri Lanka’s victory in this match, leading to a 2-0 series win, marked the first time an Asian team had won a Test series in South Africa. Fernando emerged as the series’ highest wicket-taker, further cementing his place in Sri Lanka’s fast-bowling legacy.
His ascendancy continued, and in January 2021, Fernando achieved his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket during the second Test against South Africa, showcasing his development into a key player for Sri Lanka in the international cricket arena.
Vishwa Fernando Bowling Speed and Play Style
Vishwa Fernando is known for his distinctive play style as a left-arm fast-medium bowler. His approach to bowling is characterized by what is often described as a “skiddy” action, which essentially means that the ball skids on after hitting the pitch, often making it difficult for the batsman to judge the bounce. This, combined with his accuracy and raw pace, makes him a notable figure in the Sri Lankan bowling lineup.
Fernando’s ability to generate significant pace has been a critical element of his play style. While specific information about his maximum bowling speed wasn’t directly available, his categorization as a fast-medium bowler suggests speeds typically ranging anywhere from 130 to 145 km/h. Fast-medium bowlers like Fernando are known for their ability to combine speed with movement and control, making them versatile and effective in various playing conditions.
Throughout his career, Fernando has demonstrated a knack for impactful performances, particularly in Test matches. His bowling is marked by a relentless pursuit of wickets, often leading to crucial breakthroughs for his team. His bowling style, characterized by raw pace and accuracy, has been instrumental in several of Sri Lanka’s notable victories in the international arena.
Personal Life - Family, Wife Name and Hobby
Vishwa Fernando, a Sri Lankan cricketer known for his contributions to the national team in all formats, leads a life that blends his professional commitments with personal interests and family life. Born on September 18, 1991, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Fernando has established himself not only as a proficient cricketer but also as a family man.
While specific details about Fernando’s wife and children are not publicly available, it’s known that he is married. His personal life remains relatively private, with a focus primarily on his cricketing career. Fernando, who is 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 65 kg, enjoys a simple lifestyle, dedicated largely to his sport.
In terms of hobbies, Fernando’s main interest unsurprisingly revolves around cricket, reflecting his deep passion for the sport that has shaped his professional journey. His involvement in cricket extends beyond playing for the national team, as he has been a part of various clubs and teams, showcasing his skills in different formats and leagues.
Fernando’s approach to life appears to be grounded and focused, with a clear dedication to his sport while maintaining a balance with his personal life. His journey from a young cricketer to a national player mirrors his commitment to his passion, cricket, which remains at the forefront of his interests and activities.
Conclusion
In the panorama of Sri Lankan cricket, Vishwa Fernando stands as a beacon of resilience and skill, his story echoing the virtues of persistence and hard work. His journey from a hopeful young bowler to a mainstay in the national team exemplifies the spirit of cricket in Sri Lanka, a sport that is as much about the love of the game as it is about national pride. Fernando’s career, marked by crucial breakthroughs and impressive performances, serves as an inspiration to upcoming cricketers, illustrating that determination and hard work can pave the way for success even in the face of formidable challenges.
As Fernando continues to don the Sri Lankan jersey, his legacy extends beyond the wickets and match-winning performances. He embodies the spirit of cricket in Sri Lanka, a testament to the country’s rich cricketing culture and its ability to nurture world-class talent. His story, blending personal achievements with national pride, leaves an indelible mark on the sport, encouraging future generations to dream big and aspire high in the world of cricket. Fernando’s journey in cricket is not just a series of games played, but a narrative that will inspire and influence the future of cricket in Sri Lanka.