Who is Dunith Wellalage? The Sri Lanka spinner who made Virat and Rohit dance to his tune

India and Sri Lanka are currently locking horns against each other in their Super 4 match of the Asia Cup 2023 in Colombo. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first at R Premadasa Stadium. Rohit once again provided a solid foundation to India as he smashed yet another half-century in the ongoing tournament. Rohit's innings was cut short by Sri Lanka's young spin-bowling sensation Dunith Wellalage, who also managed to dismiss Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli cheaply. Wellalage came back to take the wicket of KL Rahul, putting India in a tough spot. 

3 things you need to know

• Dunith Wellalage picked up a five-wicket haul against India on Tuesday
• Wellalage was the captain of the Sri Lankan team in the 2022 U-19 World Cup
• The 20-year-old made his international debut against Australia in 2022

Also Read: India Vs Sri Lanka Live Score Asia Cup 2023

Who is Dunith Wellalage?

Born in Colombo, the talented left-arm spinner, Dunith Wellalage, made his international debut in 2022 during the inaugural ODI against Australia. In his maiden appearance, the emerging spin sensation took two wickets, conceding just 49 runs in his seven overs. Wellalage earned his place in the national team following an impressive performance in the 2022 U-19 World Cup. He not only emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the ICC event but also picked up two five-wicket hauls in his first two games.

While he consistently dazzled with his bowling performances, Wellalage caught the selectors' attention when he smashed a magnificent century (113 off 130 balls) against South Africa in the fifth-place play-off semi-final of the U-19 World Cup 2022. In the same year, Wellalage was selected for the Test squad against Australia and has featured in a single Test match so far. The young cricketer played a pivotal role in a dramatic turnaround during the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in November 2022.

Also Read: IND Vs SL: Rohit Sharma Makes Huge Record, Goes Past Dhoni & Tendulkar; Only Behind Kohli

Asia Cup 2023: Wellalage leaves the 'Men in Blue' stunned in Colombo

In the match against India, Wellalage played a crucial role with the ball as he picked up a five-wicket haul to help Sri Lanka take a commanding position. Wellalage bamboozled India's top-order with his impressive spin bowling. Thanks to Wellalage, India are struggling to take an upper hand in the match. 

Image: AP