5 Interesting facts about Roshen Silva

The 29-year-old Roshen Silva has been able to light up the Sri Lankan squad with yet another rock-solid performance against the daring Bangladeshi side as they clinched a 1-0 series win on their soil. The right-handed batsman made his debut against the neighbouring nation, India and was able to put the best foot forward in the second innings which eventually helped the hosts to draw the match.

Looking at his consistency and temperament, it won’t be wrong to say that he might end up being the pillar of the team in the longest format. Having a good first-class experience to his side, Silva has been able to take that momentum in the International circuit. A formidable first-class average of 51.37 and close to 4000 first-class runs as of now proves he is one to look out for. Further, he is also a great fielder and can well be seen in the coloured jersey in the times to come. Here are some of the interesting facts:

1. Averages 103- Highest in Test Cricket with minimum of 5 innings

Roshen Silva played a magnificent knock against India in his debut match and carried the much-needed form to the Bangladesh, where he featured in both the matches and scored handsome runs to back the selectors’ decision. Having featured in three Test matches and played in five innings, Silva holds a record of highest average in Test cricket with a minimum of 5 innings. It will be interesting to see if he can continue in the same vein in the long run.

2. Featured in two Under-19 World Cups

It has been rightly taught, the technique can well be corrected, but temperament comes from within. Being a part of Under-19 World Cup twice speaks volumes about his character. He featured in the years 2006 and 2008 in the U19 World Cups and played a crucial role in both the tournaments. Silva then carried his form, knocking hard on the national selection doors, especially when Sri Lankan team was trudging towards another transition phase.

3. One of the most memorable debuts

Roshen Silva got an opportunity to feature in playing eleven against the roaring Indian Team, as the world number 1 team in Tests was right on top. The third and final Test in Delhi was again falling in India’s pocket which would have eventually helped India to win the series 2-0. However, the right-hander had his plans set and played one of the most memorable innings of his life, scoring 74 runs off 184 balls which helped his side to draw the match.

4. Became 4th Player to score four fifty-plus scores in 5 innings

Not everyday one gets a chance to feature alongside some of the greats of modern day cricket. After scoring back-to-back fifties against Bangladesh in the second and final Test, Roshen Silva became the fourth player to score ‘four’ fifty-plus scores in five innings. Interestingly, he has either scored a duck in his career or a fifty-plus score.The other greats to feature in the list are Herbie Collins, Sunil Gavaskar and Mohammad Azharuddin.

5. International debut after 10 years of First-Class Cricket

Roshen Silva has been able to make a name for himself from very early age. After making it to the Under-19 World Cup squad twice, Silva had to prove his stature at first-class level for 10 long years. Seeing his consistency with the bat and athleticism on the field, the Sri Lankan board finally gave him an opportunity, which he grabbed with both his hands. Now after a string of impressive performances, he has more or less cemented his place in the side.

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