Credit: ICC
On August 1, 2000, Sri Lanka off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana was born to Ruwan Theekshana and Nirmala Theekshana in Colombo. After performing exceptionally as a bowler, he was called for trials by the National Cricket Academy at R. Premadasa Stadium. Theekshana gave a magnificent performance in the trials and succeeded in impressing the spin bowling coaches and director of cricket at National Cricket Academy, Simon Willis. His journey in competitive cricket began with his T20 debut for Colt Cricket Club against Lankan CC in March 2018. The same year, he also broke into Sri Lanka’s List A and First-Class cricket.
Following his three years of diligence in domestic cricket, he made his international debut for Sri Lanka against South Africa on September 7, 2021 in Colombo. The spin wizard looked impressive with the ball, bagged a four-wicket haul in his 10-over spell. Sri Lanka won that game by 78 runs. Three days later, he also broke into T20 Internationals (T20I) with his appearance against the Protea side in Colombo. He also made his Test debut against Australia in July 2022 but was dropped from the squad after playing the two matches in the series.
Maheesh Theekshana’s contribution to Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2022 win
Maheesh Theekshana made an essential contribution to Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2022 title win. Allying with Wanindu Hasaranga, he formed a formidable spin-bowling attack for Sri Lanka. He grabbed six wickets in six games at a frugal economy of 6.75. Discussing his overall international numbers, he has claimed 143 wickets in 120 matches.
Theekshana made his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut in 2022 for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and serving the Yellow Army for three years, he clinched 25 wickets in 27 matches at an economy of 7.66. He was also a member of CSK’s squad that won their fourth title under MS Dhoni’s leadership in 2023. Theekshana chipped in with 11 wickets to CSK’s success in 13 outings. In 2025, he became a part of the first IPL champions Rajasthan Royals (RR) at INR 4.40 crore.
