What Should You Know About Nisala Tharaka Sri Lanka’s New Seamer for England Test?

Sri Lanka’s cricket squad has been unleashed for their upcoming three-Test showdown with England, starting August 21. Among the roster’s intriguing inclusions is the uncapped right-arm pacer, Nisala Tharaka. As Sri Lanka prepares to face a formidable English side in seam-friendly conditions, Tharaka’s debut may prove crucial. Here’s what you need to know about Sri Lanka’s newest Test squad member.

While Nisala Tharaka’s potential Test debut might have fans assuming he’s a young up-and-comer, the truth is quite different. At 33, Tharaka’s been a stalwart of Sri Lankan domestic cricket for over 13 years. He started his cricketing odyssey with a List-A debut in early 2011, followed by a first-class initiation that May. By 2015, he finally made his T20I debut, proving that good things and great innings come to those who wait!

Tharaka’s primary reputation may be as a medium-pace bowler with speeds hovering around 125-130 km/h, but his batting abilities are far from negligible. Over his 13-year first-class career, he has amassed 257 wickets at an average of 30.27 across 107 matches. He also boasts a commendable record with the bat, having scored 2,358 runs at an average just shy of 20. This includes 10 five-wicket hauls and 12 half-centuries, one of which was so grand it decided to ditch the half-century and go straight for a century. His contributions in white-ball formats are also notable, with 140 wickets and 999 runs in 135 games.

Tharaka’s inclusion in the national Test squad didn’t happen overnight. It was his stellar performance for Sri Lanka A against Afghanistan A in May 2024 that ultimately tipped the scales in his favor. The match, which took place in Colombo, saw Tharaka struggle initially, going wicketless in Afghanistan A’s first innings and scoring a duck. However, he made a dramatic comeback in the second innings, delivering a match-winning spell of 6/42 in 11.3 overs. His efforts helped Sri Lanka A secure a victory by an innings and 26 runs. 

Tharaka’s recent cricketing endeavors also include being a part of the Jaffna Kings squad, the champions of the 2024 Lanka Premier League (LPL). Although he didn’t get an opportunity to play in the tournament, his inclusion in the champion squad is a testament to his capabilities and the recognition he has garnered. 

Earlier this year, Tharaka reached a personal milestone that had eluded him for nearly 13 years—a maiden first-class century. In a match for Colombo against Kandy in Sri Lanka’s 4-day tournament, Tharaka came in at No. 9 and scored a vital 107 off 153 balls. His century helped Colombo recover from 283/7 to post a formidable total of 500. He also contributed with the ball, taking 5/39, leading Colombo to an innings victory.

Whether he gets a chance to debut or not, Tharaka’s story is one of perseverance and late-career resurgence—a testament to the depth of talent in Sri Lankan cricket and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. As the series against England unfolds, keep an eye out for this seasoned campaigner, who is ready to make his mark on the international stage.

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