Born on May 30, 1983, in Ragama, Sri Lanka, Kariyawasam Tirana Gamage Dhammika Prasad, popularly known as Dhammika Prasad, carved a niche for himself in the cricketing arena.
Standing tall at 5 ft 10 in, this right-handed batter turned fast-medium bowler became a force to reckon with on the field.
Over the years, Dhammika Prasad donned the Sri Lankan jersey in Tests, ODIs, and T20s, showcasing his prowess with the ball.
His cricketing journey took him from playing domestically for Sinhalese Sports Club and Basnahira North to grappling with injuries that kept him off the field post-2015 West Indies tour.
In 2021, at 37, Prasad hung up his international cricketing boots, transitioning to a coaching role with the Nepal national cricket team.
Key Takeaways
Hide- Early Talent Recognition: Initially a top-order batsman, Dhammika Prasad shifted to fast bowling, a decision that defined his cricketing career.
- International Debut: Prasad debuted internationally in 2006 on Sri Lanka's tour of Bangladesh, immediately making an impact.
- Mentorship from Legends: Under the guidance of Chaminda Vaas, Prasad honed his bowling skills, despite setbacks like injuries.
- Historic Performances: He played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's first Test series win in England in 2014, taking five wickets at Headingley.
- World Cup Selection: Prasad was selected for the 2015 Cricket World Cup but had to withdraw due to injury.
- Leadership in Bowling: In the 2015 series against India, he emerged as Sri Lanka's leading wicket-taker, showcasing his skill with the new ball.
- Transition to Coaching: Post-retirement, Prasad took up a coaching role, sharing his expertise with the Nepal national cricket team.
Personal Life of Dhammika Prasad: Cricket and Beyond
Dhammika Prasad’s early life at De Mazenod College, Kandana, saw him as a top-order batsman before he found his true calling as a bowler.
His personal life blossomed alongside his cricketing career, culminating in marriage to Nihari Kariyawasam.
The couple’s joy doubled with the arrival of a baby boy in 2016, an event Prasad excitedly shared with his fans on Twitter.
This chapter in Prasad’s life reflects not just his achievements on the cricket field but also the fulfillment he finds off it.
Journey to the Crease: Dhammika Prasad’s Evolution
Initially, Dhammika Prasad stepped onto the cricket field as a top-order batsman, showcasing his skill with the bat. However, in a twist of fate during his late teens, Prasad pivoted to become a fast bowler.
This significant transition paid off, landing him a spot in the prestigious 2002 Under-19 World Cup. Here, he demonstrated his newfound prowess, bowling with speed and accuracy.
Domestic Triumphs: Dhammika Prasad’s Club Legacy
Since the 2002/03 season, Dhammika Prasad has been a key player for the Sinhalese Sports Club, making his mark with every game.
Additionally, he played for Basnahira North, further proving his mettle on the domestic circuit.
Over the years, Prasad’s contributions have become invaluable to his teams, showcasing his evolution from a promising batsman to a formidable fast bowler.
Dhammika Prasad’s Internationa; Debut
In February 2006, Dhammika Prasad made waves in international cricket. He joined Sri Lanka’s ODI and Test squads for their Bangladesh tour.
His domestic performance, boasting an average below 23 runs per wicket, earned him this opportunity. During his ODI debut in Chittagong, Prasad clinched 2 wickets for 29 runs, contributing to Sri Lanka’s 78-run victory.
Guidance and Setbacks: Learning from the Best
Under the mentorship of Chaminda Vaas, Prasad refined his skills. However, a back injury sidelined him, delaying his Test debut until August 2008.
Against India, he made an unforgettable entrance, securing five wickets across both innings. Notably, he dismissed cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Virender Sehwag.
Tendulkar, his idol, was among his first Test wickets, marking a milestone in Prasad’s career.
Overcoming Challenges: Prasad’s Journey Continues
Prasad’s path in Test cricket saw highs and lows. He showcased his talent in Bangladesh in 2008 and faced New Zealand and India in 2009.
Despite a hamstring injury and periods without wickets, he never lost his spirit. In 2011, Prasad returned to the ODI squad for the England and Scotland tour, displaying remarkable performances.
Historic Triumph: A Key Player in England
2014 brought a historic moment for Sri Lanka and Prasad. In England, they achieved their first-ever Test series win, with Prasad playing a pivotal role.
His 5 wickets for 50 runs at Headingley were career-best figures, cementing his place in history.
Initially selected for the 2015 Cricket World Cup, an injury forced Prasad to withdraw. Yet, his comeback was strong, notably in the Test series against Pakistan.
Prasad’s bowling in the second Test was crucial, earning him the man of the match award. His performance helped Sri Lanka level the series.
Fiery Encounter: Leading the Attack Against India
During the 2015 India Test tour, Dhammika Prasad’s new-ball prowess was on full display. He consistently troubled the Indian top order, becoming Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in the series.
His confrontations with Ishant Sharma added a fiery edge to his game, though it drew the ICC’s attention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did Dhammika Prasad make his international debut for Sri Lanka?
Dhammika Prasad made his international debut during Sri Lanka’s tour of Bangladesh in February 2006, where he played in the ODI series.
What are some of Dhammika Prasad's memorable performances in international cricket?
Prasad’s notable performances include his Test debut against India in August 2008, where he took five wickets across both innings, and his career-best figures of 5/50 at Headingley in 2014, contributing to Sri Lanka’s historic Test series win in England.
What did Dhammika Prasad do after retiring from international cricket?
After retiring from international cricket in 2021, Dhammika Prasad transitioned into a coaching role with the Nepal national cricket team.
