Can swing the new ball and use it as my strength: Theekshana

With the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana around, Maheesh Theekshana’s role in the national team is evident: to bowl defensively. The off-spinner finished 2023 with just three wickets, but what was impressive was that his economy was still only 7.16. 

The trend has continued this year as well, with Theekshana only picking up 11 wickets across 40 overs but bowling his overs at an economy rate of 6.91. Ahead of the six-match limited-overs series against India, the off-spinner opened up on his role for the national team. 

“When I’m playing for the national team, since we have wicket-taking bowlers, sometimes I’ve to bowl more economically. Because of the team balance and the composition of the attack with Hasaranga, Pathirana in place, who go for wickets, you need someone to look after the economy as well. Nowadays in T20s, you need to contain as well because it will help others get the wickets. Our plan is to bowl tightly and anyone can get wickets, but one of us has to bowl tight,” Theekshana told The Indian Express. 

Theekshana opened up about his technique, stating that his ability to bowl with the new ball and swing it around helps him deliver in the powerplay. 

“Of course it helps with the variations, but with the new ball I can swing and I can use the pitch as well. That’s how I came to the national set-up and I continue to do that in whichever team I play,” the 24-year-old said. 

Earlier in an interview with Cricket.com, Theekshana emphasized ‘spot bowling’ and how much that has helped him over the years to nail those yorkers. The off-spinner reaffirmed the same, stating that his clear plans at the death help him keep things calm and composed. 

“Actually, I can bowl good yorkers. Because I read the batsmen well, I’ve the confidence to do well at the death overs. And because I’ve been good with the new ball, I spend a lot of time bowling with the old ball in the practice sessions,” he says.

“I bowl spot balls (hitting the cones) a lot so that I stay in good rhythm. You need that experience and confidence to execute with both the new and old ball. The other thing is, I’m very clear in what I want to bowl. Before I start my run-up I’m clear when it comes to what variation to bowl and when. If you are confused, then I will struggle to execute,” he adds.

Sri Lanka begin their new era under Charith Asalanka’s leadership, starting with the first T20I in Pallekele on July 27 (Saturday).