On This Day in 1989: Lahiru Thirimanne was born

Lahiru Thirimanne may not always feature among the first names that come to mind when discussing Sri Lanka’s golden generation, but the left-handed batter produced several performances that showcased his ability to deliver when his team needed him most. Across 44 Tests, 127 ODIs and 26 T20Is, Thirimanne accumulated more than 5,500 international runs, with seven centuries to his name.

From a marathon Test innings in Galle to an unbeaten century in a World Cup run chase and a match-winning knock in an Asia Cup final, here are three of Lahiru Thirimanne’s finest performances in international cricket.

155* vs Bangladesh, Galle – 2013

Thirimanne’s highest individual score in international cricket came during Sri Lanka‘s first Test against Bangladesh in Galle in March 2013. Batting first, Sri Lanka were already in a commanding position when Thirimanne walked in. However, the left-hander made sure the advantage was converted into a dominant position. He remained unbeaten on 155, his maiden Test century, as Sri Lanka piled up 570/4 before declaring.

Thirimanne displayed immense patience during the innings, building his score through a combination of solid defence and well-timed strokes. His unbeaten 155 was particularly significant because it demonstrated his ability to bat for long periods and construct a substantial Test innings.

He shared a huge partnership with Dinesh Chandimal, who also remained unbeaten on 116. The duo helped Sri Lanka completely take control of the contest. The innings remains Thirimanne’s highest score in Test cricket and one of the standout knocks of his career.

139* vs England, Wellington – 2015 World Cup

If there was one innings that best captured Thirimanne’s ability to perform on a major stage, it was his unbeaten 139 against England during the 2015 ODI World Cup. England posted a formidable 309/6 after batting first, with Joe Root scoring 121. Sri Lanka, therefore, needed an imposing chase, but Thirimanne and Kumar Sangakkara transformed the contest into a one-sided affair.

Thirimanne scored an unbeaten 139 off 143 balls, striking 13 fours and two sixes. Sangakkara contributed an unbeaten 117, and the pair added a remarkable 212-run partnership for the second wicket. Sri Lanka eventually reached 312/1 in just 47.2 overs, winning by nine wickets with 16 balls remaining. Thirimanne fittingly sealed the victory with a six.The innings remains his highest ODI score and arguably the most memorable knock of his international career. More importantly, it came in a World Cup match while chasing a 300-plus target, making it particularly valuable.

101 vs Pakistan, Mirpur – 2014 Asia Cup final

Thirimanne saved one of his most important ODI performances for a final. Sri Lanka faced Pakistan in the 2014 Asia Cup final in Mirpur, with Pakistan posting 260/5 after batting first. Chasing a competitive target, Sri Lanka lost Kusal Perera after a promising start, bringing Thirimanne and Mahela Jayawardene together. The pair produced a match-defining partnership. Thirimanne scored a composed 101 off 108 deliveries, striking 13 boundaries, while Jayawardene contributed 75. Their 156-run partnership for the third wicket put Sri Lanka firmly in control.

Thirimanne’s approach was particularly impressive because he initially had to play the anchor’s role before accelerating once he was set. His century ensured Sri Lanka remained ahead of the required rate and gave the team a platform to chase down Pakistan’s total.

Sri Lanka eventually reached 261/5 in 46.2 overs to win the final by five wickets and claim the Asia Cup title. Thirimanne’s century was therefore not just another three-figure score; it came in a final and played a central role in Sri Lanka lifting the trophy.

A career defined by important knocks Thirimanne’s international career featured periods of inconsistency, but his best performances showed why Sri Lanka repeatedly backed him. His 155* against Bangladesh highlighted his ability to play long Test innings, his 139* against England demonstrated his class on the World Cup stage, while his 101 against Pakistan showed his temperament in a Final.

These three knocks also represent three different aspects of his batting: endurance, aggression and composure under pressure. While Thirimanne’s career numbers may not place him alongside Sri Lanka’s greatest batters, his memorable performances ensured that he left his mark on some important moments in the country’s cricketing history. For a player who spent much of his career competing for a place in a star-studded Sri Lankan batting line-up, these innings remain reminders of the talent and temperament that made him a valuable international cricketer.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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