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Dinesh Chandimal, whose full name is Lokuge Dinesh Chandimal, is a name that resonates with cricket enthusiasts, especially those who follow Sri Lankan cricket.Chandimal was born on November 18, 1989, in Balapitiya and has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of international cricket.A right-handed batsman with a penchant for playing strokes all around the wicket, Chandimal's technical prowess is complemented by his mature temperament at the crease. This unique combination has enabled him to build and pace his innings with precision, making him one of the most promising young batsmen in Sri Lankan cricket.
Chandimal's journey into the world of cricket began at a young age. His performances at age-level cricket were consistently impressive, both with the bat and behind the stumps. An attacking century against India's Under-19 team in August 2007 and an unbeaten 112 in a tri-nation series against England's U-19 team the following year earned him a spot in the squad for the U-19 World Cup held in Malaysia in 2008.
After completing a prolific season for Ananda College in Colombo, Chandimal's talent caught the eye of Sri Lankan cricketing legend Kumar Sangakkara. Sangakkara invited the young prodigy to join the Nondescripts Cricket Club. When Chandimal was only 19 years old, he achieved his first-ever century in first-class cricket against New Zealand back in 2009.This was during a match where he represented a Sri Lanka Cricket Development XI, facing seasoned players like Chris Martin, Darryl Tuffey, Ian O'Brien, Jacob Oram, and Daniel Vettori.
His consistent performances, especially in Sri Lanka's Inter Provincial Twenty20 competition, didn't go unnoticed. Chandimal was soon called up to the national side for the ICC World Twenty20 in 2010. His international debut came shortly after, and he didn't disappoint. In only his second One Day International (ODI) match, Chandimal scored a commendable 111 against India during the 2010 triangular series in Zimbabwe. Just four innings later, he registered another century, this time against England at the iconic Lord's cricket ground.
Chandimal's rise in international cricket was meteoric. By 2012, he had established himself as a crucial player in Sri Lanka's middle order, especially in ODIs. His performances in unfamiliar conditions, like in South Africa and Australia, were particularly noteworthy. Occupying the vital No.4 slot, Chandimal showcased his ability to adapt and score consistently. In a span of 16 ODI innings across the two series, he amassed 630 runs, which included six half-centuries.
His Test debut was equally impressive. Chandimal scored fifties in both innings during a Test match in Durban, helping Sri Lanka secure their maiden Test victory on South African soil. Dinesh Chandimal's early life and entry into cricket is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for the game. From his days playing age-level cricket to representing his nation on the global stage, Chandimal's journey has been nothing short of inspirational.
Dinesh Chandimal's ascent in international cricket was nothing short of meteoric. Making his international debut during the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 in the West Indies, he quickly showcased his prowess. He played crucial innings in Sri Lanka's group games and further demonstrated his potential against Australia in the "Super Eight" final series.
His One Day International (ODI) journey began in Zimbabwe, where he made an indelible mark by scoring an unbeaten 10 against Zimbabwe, leading his side to a nine-wicket win. However, it was his innings against India that truly announced his arrival on the global stage. Chandimal scored a brilliant 111 runs off 118 balls, an innings that not only helped his side clinch the match but also made him the youngest Sri Lankan to score an One Day International century.
Chandimal's Test debut was equally significant. In December 2011, during the 2nd Test of the series against RSA in Durban, he made history. Scoring half-centuries in both innings, Chandimal became the first Sri Lankan batsman to achieve this feat on Test debut. This performance was instrumental in leading Sri Lanka to their maiden Test victory on South African soil.
His contributions in the T20 format were also noteworthy. Chandimal was a pivotal member of the 2012 ICC World Twenty20 runner-up team. He led Sri Lanka in the initial group stages of the 2014 ICC World Twenty20, a tournament in which Sri Lanka emerged as champions. Chandimal's fielding skills were also highlighted when he set the joint record for the most catches in a single T20I as a fielder.
Chandimal's leadership qualities were evident early on. On 17 July 2013, he became the youngest ODI captain for Sri Lanka. By 2013, he was also appointed captain of the Sri Lanka Twenty20 International side and was named vice-captain of the country's one-day international team. However, during the 2014 ICC World Twenty20, he had to step down from captaincy due to injury and suspension, and Lasith Malinga took over the reins, leading the team to their first-ever Twenty20 championship title.
Despite facing challenges and criticisms, Chandimal's captaincy saw several memorable moments. One such instance was during the one-off Test against Zimbabwe in July 2017. Chandimal's leadership and his innings of 55 runs played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's victory, where they chased down a massive total of 388 runs. This chase remains the best by Sri Lanka in Tests and is the highest successful chase in Asia.
Chandimal's leadership was further tested during the series against India. Despite facing heavy defeats, Chandimal's resilience and determination were evident. He was a consistent performer with the bat, and even managed to score his tenth test century, making him the fastest Sri Lankan to achieve this milestone. Dinesh Chandimal's rise in the international arena and his leadership skills have solidified his position as one of the pillars of Sri Lankan cricket. His journey, filled with challenges, triumphs, and memorable moments, serves as an inspiration for budding cricketers and fans alike.
Dinesh Chandimal's cricketing journey is adorned with numerous memorable performances and milestones that have etched his name in the annals of cricketing history.
Against India: Chandimal's innings against India in Zimbabwe, where he scored a brilliant 111 runs off 118 balls, not only helped his side clinch the match but also made him the youngest Sri Lankan to score an ODI century.
Test Debut:It's truly remarkable what Chandimal achieved during the second Test of the series against South Africa in Durban in December 2011. Scoring half-centuries in both innings is no easy feat, and he did it with such grace and skill. It's even more impressive that he became the first Sri Lankan batsman to achieve this on Test debut, paving the way for others to follow in his footsteps and make their own mark in history.
T20I Performances: Chandimal played a pivotal role in the 2012 ICC World Twenty20 runner-up team and led Sri Lanka in the initial group stages of the 2014 ICC World Twenty20, where Sri Lanka emerged as champions.
Against South Africa: In a one-off Twenty20 International against South Africa in August 2018, Chandimal played a crucial role in guiding Sri Lanka to victory with an unbeaten 36 runs.
Against Bangladesh: On 26 May 2022, during the second test match against Bangladesh, Chandimal scored his twelfth Test century. He formed a 199-run partnership for the sixth wicket with fellow centurion Angelo Mathews, which is the highest between the pair in Tests.
Against Australia: In July 2022, Chandimal scored a brilliant unbeaten 205 runs in the second Test against Australia. He achieved a phenomenal feat by scoring a double century against Australia, thus becoming the first Sri Lankan to do so. As a result, Sri Lanka secured their inaugural innings victory against the Aussies in Test cricket.
Like any sportsperson, Chandimal too faced his share of challenges. After the 2018 Asia Cup, due to a series of poor performances, Chandimal was dropped from the Test squad for the South Africa tour. It has been decided that Dimuth Karunaratne will take over as the substitute captain for the upcoming tour. Additionally, Chandimal has been granted permission to participate in domestic cricket in order to enhance his batting form.However, his resilience and determination saw him making a comeback in December 2019 for the Pakistan test series.
In March 2021, during the Sri Lanka tour of West Indies, Chandimal scored his fifth T20I half-century. However, after the series, he was dropped from the squad for the Bangladesh and India tours, citing poor performances. Chandimal sought clarity from the Sri Lanka Cricket board and its technical committee about his future in the national team. His dedication and commitment to the game were evident when, after impressive performances in the SLC Invitational T20 League, he was included in the squad for the South African series in September 2021.
Chandimal's journey has been a roller-coaster ride, filled with highs and lows. But his ability to bounce back from challenges and his unwavering dedication to the sport have made him one of the stalwarts of Sri Lankan cricket.
As of the latest updates, Dinesh Chandimal continues to be an integral part of the Sri Lankan cricket team. His contributions to the team, both as a player and a leader, have been invaluable. Over the years, Chandimal has showcased his versatility by adapting to various formats of the game, be it Test, ODI, or T20I. His recent performances, including his double century against Australia, have further solidified his position in the team.
Chandimal's legacy is not just limited to his on-field performances. He has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for many young cricketers in Sri Lanka. His journey, from a young boy in Balapitiya to one of the leading cricketers for Sri Lanka, is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the game. Chandimal's story serves as a reminder that with perseverance and commitment, one can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
Dinesh Chandimal's journey in the world of cricket is a captivating tale of talent meeting opportunity. Chandimal's rise from school cricket to international success shows his determination and resilience. His performances have not only brought joy to cricket enthusiasts but have also inspired countless young aspirants to dream big. As Chandimal continues to grace the cricketing field, his legacy as one of Sri Lanka's finest cricketers is firmly etched in history. His story is a testament to the fact that with passion and perseverance, one can scale the highest peaks of success.
FAQs
When did Dinesh Chandimal make his international debut?
Chandimal made his international debut during the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 in the West Indies.
How many centuries has Chandimal scored in Test cricket?
As of the latest records, Chandimal has scored multiple centuries, including a double century against Australia.
Has Chandimal ever captained the Sri Lankan cricket team?
Yes, Chandimal has captained the Sri Lankan team in various formats, including Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
What is one of Chandimal's most memorable innings?
One of his most memorable innings is the unbeaten 205 runs against Australia, leading Sri Lanka to their first-ever innings victory against them.
Where was Dinesh Chandimal born?
Dinesh Chandimal was born in Balapitiya, Sri Lanka.
