TILLAKARATNE DILSHAN
Right-hand batsman; right-arm off-breaks; wicket-keeper
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FACTFILE
DOB: 14.10.76
Test debut: v Zimbabwe, Bulawayo, 1999
ODI debut: v Zimbabwe, Bulawayo, 1999
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What with his middle-order batsman, occasional bowling, and even more occasional wicket-keeping, Dilshan is the very definition of a utility squad member.
Has only been allowed limited Test and one-day appearances, however, because his primary asset, his batting, has barely earned him an average in the mid-20s in both forms of the game.
A convert from Islam to Buddhism, he burst onto the international scene with an unbeaten 163 against Zimbabwe in his first Test series.
Technically sound, comfortable against fast bowling, with quick feet, strong wrists and natural timing, Dilshan has talent in abundance.
But so far he has failed to nail down a regular place in the national side, despite excelling for Board XIs and the A team.