Malinga Bandara      

Full name Charitha Malinga Bandara

Born December 31, 1979, Kalutara

Current age 29 years 329 days

Major teams Sri Lanka, Basnahira South, Galle Cricket Club, Gloucestershire, Kalutara Town Club, Nondescripts Cricket Club, Ragama Cricket Club, Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club

Batting style Right-hand bat

Bowling style Legbreak

Malinga Bandara was earmarked from an early age as a legspinner of great potential. On the basis of his school performances he was selected for the Under-19 tour to India in 1997, the Under-19 World Cup in South Africa, and the Sri Lanka A tour to England in 1999. In between, he made his Test debut against New Zealand in 1998-99 but looked all at sea in a disappointing display and did not come into consideration after that. But a match haul of 11 for 126 against England A in March 2005 confirmed his growing confidence and also helped attract the attention of Gloucestershire as they looked for a replacement for Upul Chandana. Bandara, like Chandana, is also a useful lower order batsman. He hasn't been able to nail a permanent place in the one-day set-up but has provided valuable support for Muttiah Muralitharan. It is his all-round versatility which won him a World Cup place for the Caribbean ahead of Chandana. He played just one game and has since struggled to find a place in the line-up. He was, however, named in the probables for the Champions Trophy.

Played four years representing Kalutara Vidyalaya
Represents N.C.C in Division I Cricket

Sep 2, 2009

Malinga Bandara unsuccessfully appeals for Martin Guptill's wicket

© Associated Press

Sep 2, 2009

Malinga Bandara is congratulated for his catch to remove Jesse Ryder

© AFP

Sep 2, 2009

Malinga Bandara takes a catch to dismiss Jesse Ryder

© AFP

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