Son of fisherman, Dilshan Madushanka delighted with 'unexpected' call for Sri Lanka's training camp

Cricket has witnessed several rags-to-riches stories and Sri Lanka’s latest fast-bowling sensation Dilshan Madushanka could be a new addition to it if he lives up to the expectation. While he is yet to earn a call-up from Sri Lanka’s senior team, the youngster is on the right path at present. He was recently included in Sri Lanka’s training squad for the forthcoming South Africa tour.

The 20-year-old left-arm medium-fast bowler is one among the 22 players chosen for the training. Madushanka has faced several hurdles in his life but has overcome all of them so far. His father Sujith Krishantha is a fisherman. He did not pursue higher studies either to focus on the game. Madushanka has studied up to Grade 11 (Ordinary Levels) and is now only concentrating on a career in the game.

He has played three first-class matches so far. His elder brother is also associated with the sport. Madushanka’s elder brother, Sudesh Nirmal plays with the softball while his younger brother Nipun is studying in Class X. The highly-rated pacer would be looking to make his mark while he joins the Sri Lankan team for the training camp.

Unbelievable experience: Dilshan Madushanka

Ahead of joining the camp, Dilshan Madushanka said that his inclusion in Sri Lanka’s training squad came as a surprise for him. At the same time, he stated that he was happy to receive the call and vowed to cement his place in the team with hard work. Madushanka will be leaving for Kandy on Wednesday to join the squad. Sri Lanka will train at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium from November 13-22.

“It was unbelievable. To be frank, I didn’t expect it to be happening so soon. However, I am happy to be in the squad,” Madushanka was quoted as saying by bdcrictime.

“Now with my hard and sincere work I will try to cement my place in the team,” he added.

Interestingly, Dilshan was personally informed about his inclusion by the national head coach Mickey Arthur. Sri Lanka are yet to announce the squad for the tour and if Madushanka goes on to make an impression, he might be included in the squad.