Lasith Malinga lavishes praise on the up-and-coming star Dunith Wellalage, saying, “Sri Lanka played with 12 players.”

Young Sri Lankan phenom Dunith Wellalage stunned the cricketing world with a masterful show of spin bowling prowess as he befuddled India’s top-order batsmen during a vital Asia Cup match. The 20-year-old left-arm spinner produced a superb effort and secured his first five-wicket haul at the senior international level against the tough Indian side with incredible figures of 5/40. Famous Sri Lankan cricketer Lasith Malinga praised the rising star almost away, praising Wellalage for his excellent skills and coolness under pressure.

Wellalage, who has played in just 13 One-Day Internationals, is already establishing himself as a vital player for Sri Lanka’s next campaign at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which will begin on October 5 in India. His rise to popularity on the global stage began with a standout performance at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, where he finished as the competition’s top wicket-taker after taking an incredible 17 victims at an astounding average of 13.58.

Lasith Malinga, who is renowned for his ferocious bowling periods, praised Wellalage’s outstanding performance on social media right after Sri Lanka’s match.

The legendary cricketer from Sri Lanka expressed his confidence in the young spinner’s promising future by saying,

“I think it’s safe to assume that SL played today with 12 guys. That is how good Dunith was; in addition to his many talents, he also has a great mind on his youthful shoulders. For the upcoming ten years, I think he will be the most crucial player for Sri Lanka in ODIs, Malinga wrote.

Babar Azam’s talent serves as motivation for Wellalage, who promises to keep pursuing victory.

Wellalage demonstrated humility and thankfulness after his brilliant performance against India when he recognised the influence of Pakistan’s legendary batsman Babar Azam. Wellalage resorted to social media to express his delight in his on-field performance despite Sri Lanka’s regrettable defeat in the game, writing,

“Even though the outcome wasn’t in our favour, I’m proud of how I played on the pitch. Learning from the finest, Babar Azam, whose perseverance and commitment inspire me still. We’ll continue to advance and work towards success.