Some players grab headlines for the massive sixes or incredibly crazy celebrations, even then, there are other players like Pathum Nissanka, who just quietly go about scoring runs, and one (like you) thinks, “he’s never going to stop scoring.” After Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup match against Bangladesh, ex-all-rounder Farveez Maharoof stated, “Nissanka is one of the best at the moment in the world,” which was not an offhand comment. It really illustrated how this young opener has now carved out his own place as Sri Lanka’s most consistent, reliable batter in all formats.

 

A Consistency That Sets Him Apart

 

Consistency in T20 cricket feels like a myth. One day you’re smashing a quick fifty, the next you’re trudging back after a first-ball duck. But Nissanka is rewriting that narrative. Maharoof pointed out that whenever he provides a strong start, Sri Lanka wins almost 90% of the time. That’s not a coincidence—that’s impact.

 

He does not just play well at the shortest form; his ODI numbers for the past two years have been excellent. He has been feeding runs of fifties, able to hold Lehmann-ing innings, and is able to show patience when others are clueless. On the reverse side, although so many modern openers have struggled in Test cricket, Nissanka has shown that he can do it all. It is a rare occurrence to see a player have dismissive power; he has place and timing, and from his textbook technique, he has already shown he can adapt to conditions. 

 

Technique with a Touch of Flair

 

Nissanka has a proper Test opener’s look about him – solid defense, no fuss, smooth head. And then he catches you off guard. He drives through the cover with total disdain, finds gaps without slogging, and continues to score without breaking a sweat. He’s the mate who is deadpan until you find out they’re actually the funniest person in a room – surprising and fresh.

 

He makes risk-free shots look so elegant. What you have, instead of worked shots, are pure cricketing shots—cover drives, straight punches, and classy flicks. It is both aesthetically pleasing and effective to watch. His way of playing means he is hardly going to give anyone a wicket – this is why the Sri Lankans rely on him at the top so heavily. There is a catch, however – he cannot do that by himself.

 

The Bigger Picture: Why Maharoof Might Be Right

 

Calling someone one of the best in the world is a big claim, but Maharoof isn’t just hyping up a fellow countryman. Nissanka’s numbers, temperament, and adaptability back it up. Think of how many modern openers can confidently say they’re performing across T20s, ODIs, and Tests? Very few.

 

To me, and more importantly, he has become the type of player who can dictate outcomes. Teams are aware that if they get him out early, they are in with a chance. If he survives, Sri Lanka usually controls the game situation. That’s how you know a batter has reached world-class status: he not only scores runs, but also dictates matches. 

 

FAQs 

 

  1. Why did Maharoof call Pathum Nissanka one of the best in the world?

Because of his consistency, solid technique, and match-winning influence across all formats.

 

  1. What makes Nissanka’s batting style unique?

He combines classical technique with risk-free yet stylish scoring shots.

 

  1. How important is Nissanka’s role in Sri Lanka’s success?

Sri Lanka wins most games when it provides a strong start.