Capturing 50 wickets from only five matches is no easy task, some may say impossible, but for 21-year-old Dilum Sudeera it became a reality with his leg spinners at the recently concluded Major Clubs Emerging three-day cricket tournament.
The former Karandeniya Central College and Richmond College cricketer took 52 scalps playing for Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club.
“I don’t have any special tricks up my sleeve but bowl to a good line and length and that is my secret in taking wickets. I try to apply more pressure on the batsman and most of the wickets came from LBW decisions,” said Sudeera who is leaving for England today with the Sri Lanka Emerging team.
“Being selected into the Emerging team is a big boost for my career. Conditions in England will be totally different and it will provide me with valuable experience.”
‘When I started playing first at Karandeniya Central I was very keen to witness the matches played at national and international level. This led me to dream that one day I will play for the national team,” added Sudeera.
While playing for Karandeniya Central at an under-17 game against Richmond College, Sudeera was invited by Richmond coach Dhammika Sudarshana to enroll at the school that enabled him to bowl on turf wickets.
After a three year stint at Richmond, Sudeera played for Galle CC before moving on to Tamil Union and play at Tier A level.
“When I was selected to the national under-19 team coach Hashan Tillekaratne also guided us very well. I will never forget Rangana Herath the great leggie who offered valuable advice when I was at Tamil Union.
“Ruwan Kalpage, Chamila Gamage and Malinda Warnapura were the other coaches who guided me,” said Sudeera.
“I am more dedicated now and work hard on my fitness. I am working towards a place with the national team which is my ultimate goal.”