Tillakaratne Dilshan, earlier known as Tuwan Mohammad Dilshan before he converted from Islam to Buddhism, burst onto to the international scene with an unbeaten 163 against Zimbabwe in his first series during November 1999. Technically sound, comfortable against fast bowling, possessed of quick feet, strong wrists and natural timing, Dilshan has talent in abundance. But the bright start to his career was followed by a frustrating 15 months when he was shovelled up and down the order, and in and out of the side. After a lean series against England in 2001 he was dumped until a one-day and Test return in 2003. He came back mentally stronger and determined to play his own natural aggressive game. The approach was immediately successful with a string of good scores against England and Australia, and then came some match-winning bowling performances against South Africa. He has continued to be a steady influence in the middle order, although the average is still below 40. However, he brings an added dimension to the team, especially in one-day cricket, with his brilliant fielding and this was highlighted in the first final of the 2005-06 VB Series when he effected four run outs, while his offspin is often under-rated especially on slow pitches.
Charlie Austin February 2007

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Aug 8, 2008 Tillakaratne Dilshan and Muttiah Muralitharan celebrate Sourav Ganguly's wicket © AFP

Aug 7, 2008 Tillakaratne Dilshan launches into a shot © AFP

Aug 3, 2008 Tillakaratne Dilshan played a counter-attacking cameo © AFP

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