Eshan Malinga

Eshan Malinga

Role: Bowler

Batting Style: Left Handed Bat

Bowling Style: Right-arm fast-medium

Country: Sri Lanka

Team: Sunrisers Hyderabad

Player profile for Eshan Malinga

Eshan Malinga is a promising Sri Lankan cricketer known for his fast-medium bowling and aggressive left-handed batting. Born on February 4, 2001, in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, he has quickly made a name for himself in both domestic and international cricket with his impressive performances and raw pace.

Early Life and Education:

Eshan Malinga, whose full name is Kiribathgala Kankanamalage Eshan Malinga Dharmasena, hails from Ratnapura, a city in Sri Lanka known for its rich gem heritage. He completed his schooling at Sivali Central College in Ratnapura and Vidyakara Maha Vidyalaya in Opanayake. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in cricket and began his journey in the sport, eventually catching the attention of scouts for his pace and all-round ability.

Cricketing Career:

Domestic Career:

Eshan Malinga made his mark in Sri Lanka’s domestic circuit in 2022, playing for Ragama Cricket Club in List A cricket. His standout performances quickly grabbed the spotlight. He took 20 wickets in 12 List A matches at an impressive average of 25.15, showcasing his potential as a bowler with considerable pace and control.

  • Lanka Premier League (LPL): His strong performances at the domestic level earned him a place with the Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League (LPL). His ability to bowl at high speeds and generate movement in both directions made him a key player for the Kings, helping them in their success during the tournament.

International Career:

Eshan Malinga’s performances in domestic cricket caught the attention of the Sri Lankan national selectors, and in December 2024, he was named in the Sri Lankan ODI squad for their series against New Zealand. This was a significant milestone in his career, as he earned his first call-up to the national team. His raw pace and aggressive bowling style were seen as assets that could bolster Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.

  • Indian Premier League (IPL): In the 2025 IPL auction, Eshan Malinga was picked up by the Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹1.20 crore. This was a major boost to his career, as IPL exposure could help him refine his skills in a competitive environment and gain more recognition on the international stage.
  • SA20 League: In December 2024, Malinga joined the Paarl Royals for the SA20 League as a replacement for John Turner. His addition to the squad highlights his growing profile in T20 cricket leagues around the world, further solidifying his place as a rising talent.

Playing Style:

Eshan Malinga stands at 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) and is known for his pace bowling, regularly clocking speeds of around 140-145 kph (87-90 mph). His ability to generate swing, combined with his aggression, makes him a dangerous bowler in all formats. Additionally, Malinga’s left-handed batting provides depth to his team’s lineup, making him a valuable all-rounder.

Personal Life:

Eshan Malinga is known to keep his personal life relatively private. However, it is publicly known that he is in a relationship with Hiruni Rasangi, and he occasionally shares personal updates on his social media platforms. He has a strong following among fans, especially due to his rise in international cricket.

Social Media Presence:

Eshan Malinga maintains an active social media presence, where he connects with fans and followers. His Instagram account, @malinga__97, offers a glimpse into his cricketing journey and personal life. He is also active on Facebook under the name Eshan Malinga.

Recent Highlights:

  • International Call-Up: Eshan’s call-up to the Sri Lankan ODI squad for the New Zealand tour in December 2024 marked the start of his international career, and he made his debut in front of a global audience.
  • IPL Acquisition: His selection by Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2025 IPL auction signifies the growing recognition of his talent in global T20 leagues.
  • SA20 League Participation: Malinga’s participation in the SA20 League with the Paarl Royals has further elevated his profile in the international cricketing world, demonstrating his versatility across various formats.

Conclusion:

Eshan Malinga’s rapid rise from domestic cricket to international recognition underscores his immense talent and dedication to the sport. His raw pace, aggressive style, and ability to make an impact with both bat and ball have positioned him as one of the most exciting young cricketers in Sri Lanka. With his inclusion in international cricket and participation in major leagues like the IPL and SA20, he is one to watch in the coming years. Fans and experts alike are eagerly anticipating his future contributions to Sri Lankan and global cricket.