At just 23 years old, Ravindu Rasantha de Silva is rapidly emerging as the brightest new hope in Sri Lankan cricket. The technically sound right-handed opener, currently representing Jaffna in the National Super League (NSL), is leading the tournament’s scoring charts—outshining seasoned players such as Kamil Mishara and Avishka Fernando.
With an astounding average of 141.00 and 423 runs in just four innings, Rasantha’s consistency and hunger for runs have positioned him as a serious contender for national selection. His feats include two double centuries, with his unbeaten 206 against Kandy standing out as a masterclass in patience and power, even against a bowling attack led by international pacer Lahiru Kumara.
Rasantha’s cricketing journey began at Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda, before he moved to St. Thomas’ College in 2018, where he truly blossomed. In his debut school season, he notched up three centuries and a double century, signaling the arrival of a rare talent. His efforts at school level soon translated to international recognition, earning him a place in the Sri Lanka Under-19 squad.
During the 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup, Rasantha was Sri Lanka’s second-highest run-scorer with 286 runs at an average of 71.50. His exceptional form saw him selected to the ICC World Cup Team of the Tournament, joining the ranks of the world’s most promising young cricketers.
Rasantha’s rise through the ranks has been methodical and earned. He has already toured the West Indies, Bangladesh, and Pakistan as part of seven international youth campaigns, gaining invaluable experience in varied conditions. His ability to read the game, handle pace and spin with equal confidence, and play calculated, mature innings has impressed coaches and selectors alike.
A proud product of dedicated mentorship, Rasantha often credits his development to his school coaches, Saman Lasinka of Dharmasoka and Dinesh Kumarasinghe of St. Thomas’, as well as Hashan Tillakaratne, his Under-19 head coach. Their guidance helped shape his balanced, aggressive style—one that combines classical technique with modern-day urgency.
Beyond the numbers, Rasantha is known for his strong mental game and commitment. He is deeply motivated by the unwavering support of his father, whom he describes as his “biggest fan” and primary inspiration.
“His dream was to see me play for Sri Lanka, and I am committed to making that a reality,” Rasantha says.
That dream appears to be within touching distance. With the retirement of former Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne, a vacancy has opened at the top of Sri Lanka’s batting order. Rasantha’s current form, temperament, and technical depth make him a strong candidate to step into that role.
He has already shown signs of being more than just a domestic standout. In January, he scored 244 runs for Colts against Ace Capital in the Major Club Tournament, showcasing his readiness for the demands of first-class cricket.
As Sri Lanka searches for the next generation of batting stalwarts, Ravindu Rasantha stands tall as a beacon of hope. Focused, grounded, and full of promise, he is not just knocking on the door of national selection—he’s banging on it.
