The Rise of Aviska Fernando: The Unsung Hero of 2019 ICC World Cup

The 2019 ICC World Cup witnessed a plethora of extraordinary performances, but one name stands out among the rest: Aviska Fernando. Emerging as a surprise package, Fernando's journey from relative obscurity to becoming a force to reckon with in the Sri Lankan batting order is nothing short of remarkable. While legends like Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara had to step aside, the country was in dire need of a solid batsman to anchor the innings at number three.

Sri Lanka’s Quest for a Reliable No.3 Batsman

After the retirement of two batting legends, Sri Lanka found itself in a transition period, desperately searching for a batsman who could replace the void left behind. Several players were tried, including Chandimal, Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, and Kusal Perera, but the results were meager.

The turning point came when Aviska Fernando, a player with minimal international experience, came through. Fernando had already built a reputation as a promising talent in youth cricket, performing exceptionally well in Under-19 matches. His performance in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup further cemented his status as a potential star.

Aviska Fernando’s Journey to the Senior Team

The path to the senior team for Aviska Fernando was far from straightforward. At the tender age of 18, he made his debut against Australia in 2016. His debut essayed a duck, but he was not deterred. Instead, he used this experience to hone his skills and prepare for the next opportunity.

In the first-class matches that followed, Fernando began to find his rhythm and prove his worth. His performances did not go unnoticed, and he was eventually called back to the senior team prior to the 2019 World Cup. Initially, he played as an opener alongside Dimuth Karunaratne.

Crucial Performances in the 2019 ICC World Cup

Making his mark on the world stage, Aviska Fernando's crucial moments came in the 2019 ICC World Cup. His first big show came in a match against England. In a tightly fought battle against a formidable bowling attack, particularly that of Jofra Archer, Fernando delivered an impressive 49 runs in a short span. This performance not only boosted his confidence but also earned him a deserved recall to the team.

His next big moment came in a crucial match against West Indies, where he scored a brilliant century. Fernando is known for his exceptional timing and varied shots, which make him an unpredictable and potent adversary in any cricket format. His contribution in the World Cup solidified his status as a rising star in Sri Lankan cricket.

Aviska Fernando: The Future of Sri Lankan Cricket

Numbers tell only a part of the story. Aviska Fernando's performance in the 2019 ICC World Cup showcased abilities that hinted at a bright future. He had relatively unknown status before the tournament, but his performances ensured that he emerged as one of the brightest stars of the future for Sri Lanka.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) also acknowledged his potential, naming him as the “Rising Star of the Squad.” His continued performances in future tournaments and international competitions will be eagerly awaited.

Wishing Aviska Fernando all the luck as he continues to develop as a cricketer, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricket players everywhere.

figureimg src altAviska Fernando on the field during the 2019 ICC World Cup /figcaptionAviska Fernando on the field during the 2019 ICC World Cup/figcaption/figure