Shihan Wijesinghe
Lahiru Thirimanne, at one time looked upon as the successor to Kumar Sangakkara, is finally showing the consistency which he lacked throughout his career until of late, where he has been in the runs regularly that has made him the second highest run-getter in Test cricket for the 2021 calendar year.
Following a series of half-centuries, Thirimanne finally got over the three-figure mark in the second Test against Bangladesh to bat throughout the first day and remain unbeaten on 131*.
“It’s the hunger to score runs that has got him to where he is today,” said Sri Lanka Batting Coach Grant Flower.
“He’s worked really hard in his game, he’s taken no shortcuts, so the hard work he’s put in at the nets. I think he was netting even during the LPL when everyone else was playing, the dividends are there to see. He is very fit, he’s got a good sound mind, the mental side of things is very good and all of it has come together. Hopefully, he carries on.”
Better late than never I guess and I am not sure if 10 years is too late but given the challenges we have had in unearthing batters, Thiri making a show is most welcome. Remember he and Chandi were supposed to take over from Sanga and Mahela and here we are 10 years later and Thiri has finally managed to leave a few outside the off alone and get a few runs. Ironically Chandi has done well over the same period but is now on the fringes.
The big change in his game is leaving the ball – it’s a huge issue for our recent batters against those in the past – shot selection starting with leaving the harmless ball. Thiri was a notorious tester of the slip cordon but is now leaving the ball well.
Given the investment we have made in Thiri I take it he has is now set for a long term partnership with Dimuth giving us some stability at the top of the order.