Thilan Thushara

Hailing from the town of Balapitiya in Sri Lanka, Thilan Thushara Mirando is one among several paceman to have caught the eye on the international stage with his consistent performances. Thushara who has a deceptive quick arm action, has a lovely seam position when he delivers the ball. He has the ability to swing the ball both ways and that swing gets even more accentuated when the game is played under lights. Thushara who underwent a stint at the BCCSL's Fast Bowling Unit, impressed the selectors and was rewarded with a Test debut against West Indies in 2003.

But a below par performance on his debut, led to his axing and soon he was back in the domestic circuit as yet another hopeful. With some fine shows for his provincial side Kandurata in 2008, Thushara forced his way back into the national side. After Thushara came on to the scene, the selectors put an end to Chaminda Vaas' career. Alongwith Nuwan Kulasekara, Thushara has formed a potent new ball attack for the Lankans in both forms of the game.

Thushara has so far featured in 38 ODI games taking 50 wickets with a best haul of 5/47. He has managed 28 wickets in 10 Tests. Also known for his late order hitting, Thushara has often contributed well with the willow. Coming at 7 or 8 in the order, he has given glimpses of his potential with flashy stroke play and given rise to the perception that he could be an all-rounder in the making for the future. He made fleeting appearances for Chennai Super Kings in the 2009 Indian T20 League before being released from the squad.

Little did 'Mirando' know that his bright career would go downhill. The early signs of consistency evaporated, injuries took a toll on his body, his confidence suffered multiple dents. Thushara's last Test was against West Indies in Galle, where he went wickeless. He toils hard in the domestic stage in hopes of a re-entry to international cricket. However that appears unlikely with the likes of Shaminda Eranga and Suranga Lakmal firmly establishing themselves in the bowling attack.

by Cricbuzz Staff