Dinesh Chandimal is one of the most respected and talented cricketers from Sri Lanka. He plays with passion, discipline, and a big heart. Over the years, he has grown from a young wicketkeeper-batsman to a strong leader. In this article, we will learn about his full life — from childhood to cricket journey, his personal life, family, and also the controversies he faced. This article is written in simple English so that everyone can enjoy and understand.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lokuge Dinesh Chandimal |
| Nickname | Chandi |
| Date of Birth | 18 November 1989 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 35 years |
| Birthplace | Balapitiya, Sri Lanka |
| Nationality | Sri Lankan |
| Religion | Buddhism |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Profession | Cricketer (Wicketkeeper-Batsman) |
| Batting Style | Right-handed |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm off-break (part-time) |
| Role in Team | Middle-order Batsman & Wicketkeeper |
| International Debut | 2010 (T20 & ODI), 2011 (Test) |
| Test Cap No. | 116 |
| ODI Cap No. | 148 |
| T20I Cap No. | 35 |
| Education | Ananda College, Colombo |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife’s Name | Ishika Jayasekara |
| Children | 1 child (name not public) |
| Father’s Name | (Passed away early) |
| Mother’s Role | Major support after father’s death |
| Favorite Cricketer | Kumar Sangakkara |
| Hobbies | Golf, Travel, Helping Youth |
| Controversy | Ball-tampering ban in 2018 |
| Net Worth (approx.) | $1.5 – $2 million USD |
| Current Team(s) | Sri Lanka National Team, NCC |
| Jersey Number | 74 (in limited overs) |
Early Life and Childhood
Dinesh Chandimal was born on 18 November 1989 in Balapitiya, a small town in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. He comes from a humble background. His father was a police officer. Sadly, his father passed away when Chandimal was just a teenager. This loss was hard, but it made him stronger and more focused.
From a young age, Chandimal loved playing cricket. He would play with his friends in the streets and on fields. His talent was clear to everyone. His mother and family always supported his dream.
He went to Ananda College, a popular school in Colombo, where he improved his cricket. He was the captain of the school cricket team and scored many runs. He also worked hard in his studies. His discipline and respect towards elders made him special.
Cricket Career: From Debut to Captain
Domestic Career
Chandimal started playing for Nondescripts Cricket Club in Sri Lanka. He showed his class with the bat and sharp skills behind the stumps. His early success helped him get into the national team.
International Debut
He made his T20 debut for Sri Lanka in June 2010 against New Zealand. His ODI debut came just a few days later, and then in December 2011, he played his first Test match.
In his second ODI, he scored 111 runs against India. This was a big moment. People started talking about him as the next big star in Sri Lankan cricket.
Test Match Hero
Chandimal became one of the strongest middle-order batsmen for Sri Lanka in Test matches. He has played many important innings, including hundreds against top teams like Australia, Pakistan, and India.
His batting style is patient and classy. He can stay at the crease for hours. He is not the kind of batsman who hits big sixes, but he builds strong innings for the team.
Wicketkeeper and Leader
He is also a great wicketkeeper. He is fast, smart, and always focused. His work behind the stumps has saved many runs for Sri Lanka.
In 2013, he was named Sri Lanka’s T20 captain, and later became the Test captain too. He led the team with pride. Under his captaincy, Sri Lanka won some big matches.
Family and Personal Life
Love Life and Marriage
Dinesh Chandimal is a happily married man. He married his long-time girlfriend Ishika Jayasekara in 2015. Ishika is a supportive and loving wife. The couple shares a strong bond, and they are often seen together at events and on social media.
They have a child together and are enjoying parenthood. Chandimal often posts photos with his wife and child, showing his soft and caring side off the field.
Family Support
His family has always stood behind him. His mother played a big role in his life after his father passed away. His brother and other relatives also supported his cricket journey.
Education and Discipline
Chandimal is known not just for cricket, but also for his manners. He is soft-spoken, respectful, and disciplined. At Ananda College, he was a bright student. His school life shaped his strong personality. Even today, he respects his teachers and coaches for their support.
Controversies: Not Many, But Not None
Dinesh Chandimal is known as a clean and humble cricketer. He has stayed away from most controversies. But one big moment came in 2018 during a Test match against the West Indies.
Ball-Tampering Controversy
In June 2018, Chandimal was caught on camera during a match allegedly putting something in his mouth and applying it to the ball. The match officials thought it was ball-tampering. Chandimal said he didn’t do anything wrong.
He was banned for one Test match and later for more matches after a hearing. This moment was hard for him, but he stayed calm. He accepted the punishment and moved on with grace. After the ban, he came back stronger and played well.
Achievements and Records
- Scored over 4,500 runs in Test matches with centuries against top teams
- Over 3,000 runs in ODIs
- Captained Sri Lanka in all formats
- Scored his first double century in 2022 vs Australia – 206 not out
- Played in ICC World Cups and Asia Cups
- Known for building long partnerships and saving matches
Chandimal also received praise from cricket legends like Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene for his hard work and attitude.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Chandimal earns money from:
- Sri Lanka Cricket contracts
- Match fees and bonuses
- Sponsorships and brand deals
- Social media and public appearances
His estimated net worth is between $1.5 – $2 million USD. He lives a simple life. He owns a beautiful home in Colombo and a few cars. But he does not show off. He believes in living humbly and helping others.
Off the Field: Charity and Hobbies
Dinesh Chandimal loves spending time with his family. He also enjoys playing golf and traveling. He supports charity work, especially helping children who want to play cricket but don’t have the means.
He visits schools and donates cricket kits. He believes that every child should get a chance to follow their dream. His kind nature makes him a role model for many young players in Sri Lanka.
