Pawan Rathnayake – one of the most awaited debuts in the recent past of Sri Lankan cricket

Pawan Rathnayake – one of the most awaited debuts in the recent past of Sri Lankan cricket

At 23 years of age, Pawan Rathnayake has already built a reputation as one of the most polished batters in Sri Lanka’s domestic setup. For years, fans and analysts have spoken about his potential, making him one of the most awaited debuts in the recent past of Sri Lankan cricket. His numbers across formats reflect maturity far beyond his age.


🟦 First-Class (FC) Career

📊 FC Batting Statistics

CategoryValue
Matches53
Innings84
Not Outs14
Runs3,321
Highest Score240
Average47.44
Balls Faced5,135
Strike Rate64.67
100s / 50s11 / 11
Fours324
Sixes71

📌 FC Overview

At just 23, Pawan’s First-Class record already mirrors that of a seasoned professional. An average nearing 50 across 53 matches is exceptional by any standard. His monumental 240 showcases stamina, technique, and temperament—qualities that have fueled conversations about his national team future.


🟩 List A Career

📊 List A Batting Statistics

CategoryValue
Matches79
Innings75
Not Outs19
Runs2,510
Highest Score158*
Average44.82
Balls Faced2,713
Strike Rate92.51
100s / 50s6 / 10
Fours203
Sixes78

📌 List A Overview

Pawan brings the same consistency to List A cricket, maintaining an excellent average of nearly 45. His strike rate above 92 reflects modern intent. The unbeaten 158* remains one of domestic cricket’s most commanding innings by a young batter.


🟥 T20 Career

📊 T20 Batting Statistics

CategoryValue
Matches32
Innings24
Not Outs4
Runs245
Highest Score42
Average12.25
Balls Faced242
Strike Rate101.23
100s / 50s0 / 0
Fours12
Sixes10

📌 T20 Overview

T20 remains the format where Pawan is still evolving. However, with a strike rate above 100 and proven ability in longer formats, many believe he has the tools to succeed — especially if given a defined role and more opportunities.


Final Verdict – Sri Lanka’s Next Big Batting Hope?

At just 23, Pawan Rathnayake has already delivered what many players take a decade to achieve. His red-ball and List A numbers speak for themselves, while his maturity at the crease has made his debut one of the most anticipated moments in recent Sri Lankan cricket.

If he continues this trajectory, Pawan could emerge as one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable all-format batters in the coming years.

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