The making of Sonal Dinusha: Humble roots and the sweep shot behind Sri Lanka’s new star’s rise

Sonal Dinusha’s twin centuries against India in Galle were the result of much more than a good run of form. The Sri Lankan all-rounder’s remarkable effort in the second Test was built over 13 years of hard work, discipline and the constant backing of a coach who first spotted his potential as a young cricketer.Dinusha scored 103 in Sri Lanka’s first innings and followed it with an unbeaten 133 in the second. His second hundred came after Sri Lanka were forced to follow on, helping them recover from 290 all out and secure a draw and deny India register a 2-0 clean sweep.A boy with a clear visionDinusha grew up in a humble background without the financial resources needed to pursue cricket easily. But from a young age, he showed a determination to make a career in the sport.At the Colombo Cricket Club, coach Sonal Dulshan Alwalage became an important figure in his development. What started as a coach working with a talented youngster eventually became a 13-year project.Dulshan and people around Dinusha helped him continue training when financial limitations could have forced him away from the game. The young cricketer remained focused on his goal and gradually developed into a player capable of competing at the highest level.From spinner to batting starLike many young cricketers, Dinusha initially found his identity as a bowler. He developed into an effective left-arm spinner, but over time it became clear that his batting could take him much further. His development was built around adaptability, technique and an understanding of the game. He learned to assess situations quickly rather than simply attack every ball.One of the clearest examples of that development is his sweep shot.The sweep that became a weaponThe sweep has been one of Dinusha’s most productive strokes, particularly on pitches where spinners play a major role. It is not a shot he discovered after reaching international cricket.He has worked on it since childhood, spending long hours repeating the stroke in the nets. His training sessions could stretch for two to three hours, with the sweep receiving particular attention.That preparation was evident in Galle. Dinusha repeatedly used the shot to counter India’s spinners and turn difficult deliveries into scoring opportunities.Thirteen years of patienceDinusha’s journey to the Sri Lankan team was not sudden. It was built through years of club cricket, training and patience.When his national selection finally arrived, it represented the culmination of more than a decade of work. For Dulshan, who had stayed with him throughout the journey, it was an emotional moment and confirmation that the long-term project had worked.Dinusha also brought leadership experience with him. He became captain of the Colombo Cricket Club, giving him an opportunity to develop his understanding of leading a team.A new chapterDinusha is still only at the beginning of his international career. But his performances against India have offered a glimpse of what years of preparation can produce.The twin centuries were not simply two outstanding innings. They were the latest chapter in a journey that began with a young boy, limited resources, a supportive coach and a clear dream.Thirteen years later, that dream has turned into a Test career — and Dinusha now has the opportunity to build much more.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.