Eshan Malinga, born on February 4, 2001, in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, is rapidly establishing himself as a formidable right-arm fast-medium bowler in the international cricket arena. With a blend of pace, precision, and adaptability, Malinga has become a valuable asset to both national and franchise teams.
Early Life and Domestic Career
Malinga’s cricketing journey commenced at Sivali Central College in Ratnapura, where he honed his skills and showcased his potential. His dedication and performances at the school level paved the way for his entry into professional cricket.
In 2022, he debuted in domestic cricket with Ragama Cricket Club, marking his presence in:
- First-Class Cricket: Debuted on September 2, 2022, against Kurunegala Youth Cricket Club.
- List A Cricket: Debuted on July 5, 2022, against Negombo Cricket Club.
- T20 Cricket: Debuted on May 25, 2022, against Panadura Sports Club.
His consistent performances in domestic circuits caught the attention of national selectors, leading to his inclusion in the Sri Lanka A team and eventually the senior national squad.
International Debut and Performances
Eshan Malinga made his One Day International (ODI) debut for Sri Lanka on January 5, 2025, against New Zealand. Since then, he has participated in 5 ODIs, securing 4 wickets with a bowling average of 39.25 and best figures of 3/35. While his international career is in its nascent stages, Malinga has shown promise with his ability to generate pace and maintain tight lines.
Franchise Cricket and IPL Journey
In the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, Malinga was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for ₹1.20 crore. During the season, he played 6 matches, claiming 10 wickets at an average of 20.70, with best figures of 2/28. His performances in the IPL have been lauded, with SRH’s skipper Pat Cummins referring to him as a “huge asset to our team”.
Additionally, Malinga represented Paarl Royals in the SA20 league, where he played 3 matches and took 4 wickets, showcasing his adaptability across different playing conditions.
Career Statistics Overview
ODI:
- Matches: 5
- Wickets: 4
- Bowling Average: 39.25
- Best Bowling: 3/35
First-Class:
- Matches: 16
- Wickets: 38
- Bowling Average: 29.55
- Best Bowling: 4/33
List A:
- Matches: 17
- Wickets: 24
- Bowling Average: 27.50
- Best Bowling: 5/49
T20:
- Matches: 16
- Wickets: 17
- Bowling Average: 22.82
- Best Bowling: 2/10
Playing Style and Strengths
Eshan Malinga is known for his right-arm fast-medium bowling, characterized by consistent line and length, the ability to swing the ball both ways, and effective use of variations. His left-handed batting, while not his primary role, adds depth to the lower order. Malinga’s fielding skills further enhance his value to any team he represents.
Future Prospects
At just 24 years old, Eshan Malinga has already made significant strides in his cricketing career. With continued development and experience, he is poised to become a mainstay in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack across all formats. His performances in domestic and franchise cricket indicate a bright future ahead.
