Sri Lankan fast bowler Nuwan Thushara is known for his slingy action and pace, having debuted internationally in 2022 and playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 2025 IPL.
Nuwan Thushara is a skilled right-arm fast bowler representing Sri Lanka, recognized for his unique slingy bowling action and rapid deliveries. His technique closely mirrors that of Sri Lanka’s bowling legend, Lasith Malinga. Thushara made his first-class debut during the 2015-16 season, while his List A cricket debut came in 2017-18. Born on August 6, 1994, in Thalawa, Sri Lanka, he burst into international cricket in 2022 during a match against Australia. From a young age, Thushara showed natural talent in cricket, inspired by his idol, Lasith Malinga, and later developed a bowling style similar to his hero. He possesses the ability to swing the new ball effectively and has claimed a hat-trick in T20 Internationals, achieved against Bangladesh. Details regarding Thushara’s religious beliefs or caste background are not publicly available. Given his Sri Lankan nationality, it is widely assumed that he practices Buddhism, as it is the predominant religion in the country. Sri Lanka does not officially recognize caste distinctions, so no caste-related information is accessible about him. His focus remains solely on cricket. Nuwan Thushara hails from a supportive family that played a pivotal role in nurturing his cricketing ambitions. His father, Ilandari Dewage, enrolled him in a cricket academy at an early age, setting him on his sporting journey. His mother, Nirmala Dewage, a homemaker, also contributed significantly to his development as a cricketer. Thushara has two brothers, though their names and professions remain undisclosed. Their encouragement and shared cricketing experiences in childhood helped refine his skills. Thushara does not have any sisters. His immediate family consists of his parents and his two brothers, with whom he grew up before rising to prominence in Sri Lankan cricket. He proudly represents Sri Lanka wearing the jersey number 19, striving to deliver his best performances for both the national team and his franchise. On the personal front, Thushara’s wife is Sanduni Iresha, though the couple keeps their relationship and family life private. While no official details about their marriage date are available, it is known that they have been together for several years. Social media hints indicate they are parents to a son, though no further information has been made public. Thushara’s international cricket journey began in 2022 against Australia, following strong performances in domestic cricket. His slingy bowling action, reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, has been his trademark. He has featured exclusively in the T20I format for Sri Lanka, participating in 22 matches and claiming 30 wickets. His bowling average stands at 18.46, with an economy rate of 7.92. Thushara has achieved two four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul, with his best bowling figures being 5 for 20. As a key pace bowler for Sri Lanka, Thushara has not yet featured in ODI or Test cricket, limiting his earnings from those formats. However, his consistent performances suggest a promising future. Currently, he plays for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League during the 2025 season. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall, Nuwan Thushara has an estimated net worth and annual earnings around ₹15 crore (approximately $1.8 million), with an IPL salary of ₹1.60 crores from his franchise. All images included are for editorial use only and are licensed through Getty/Source.