Dhananjaya de Silva is a smart and skilled cricketer from Sri Lanka. He is famous for his all-round performance in international cricket. He bats in the middle order and bowls off-spin. Dhananjaya is one of the key players in Sri Lanka’s cricket team. He plays with heart and always gives his best for the team.
This article shares his full journey—from his childhood dreams to becoming a top cricketer. You’ll also read about his family, wife, personal struggles, and more.
Quick Info Table
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dhananjaya Maduranga de Silva |
| Nickname | Dhana |
| Date of Birth | September 6, 1991 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 33 years |
| Birthplace | Hambantota, Sri Lanka |
| Nationality | Sri Lankan |
| Profession | International Cricketer |
| Role in Team | Batting All-Rounder |
| Batting Style | Right-hand Bat |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm Off-break |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Sanduni Nisansala |
| Children | One daughter |
| Team (2025) | Sri Lanka National Team |
| Religion | Buddhism |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (approx.) |
Early Life and Childhood
Dhananjaya de Silva was born on September 6, 1991, in Hambantota, a city in southern Sri Lanka. His full name is Dhananjaya Maduranga de Silva. He grew up in a simple family where life was not always easy. But he loved cricket from a very young age.
He used to play cricket on the streets with his friends. His parents saw his interest and admitted him to a good school where he could study and play. He went to D.S. Senanayake College in Colombo. There, his cricket talent started to shine. He worked hard and practiced daily to become a strong batsman and a good spinner.
Even during his childhood, he dreamed of wearing the Sri Lankan jersey. That dream came true after many years of struggle and dedication.
Professional Cricket Career
Domestic Career
Dhananjaya began his cricket career with Ruhuna Royals and later played for teams like Badureliya Sports Club and Sinhalese Sports Club. He was one of the best performers in Sri Lanka’s domestic tournaments.
He scored many runs and took wickets regularly. His all-round skills made him a favorite among selectors. In the 2015–16 season, he became the highest run-scorer in Sri Lanka’s Premier League Tournament.
This excellent form earned him a call-up to the national team in 2016.
International Debut
Dhananjaya made his Test debut on July 26, 2016, against Australia. He impressed everyone with his calm batting and tight bowling. Even though it was a big match, he stayed cool and scored runs confidently.
Later that year, he made his ODI and T20I debuts against Ireland and Pakistan. He quickly became an important part of all three formats for Sri Lanka.
His game is classy. He doesn’t rush. He reads the match situation and plays according to what the team needs.
Career Highlights and Achievements
- Scored his maiden Test century against Australia in 2016 at Colombo.
- Played a key role in Sri Lanka’s win over South Africa in 2018 with both bat and ball.
- Became vice-captain of the national Test team in recent years.
- Known for match-winning innings under pressure.
- Plays regularly in all formats and is one of the most trusted players in the current squad.
In 2025, Dhananjaya is a strong pillar of the team and a senior player who guides younger cricketers.
Playing Style
Dhananjaya de Silva is an elegant right-handed batsman who can play both defensively and aggressively. He is known for playing long innings and handling pressure well. He is very good against spin and has strong footwork.
As a bowler, he delivers right-arm off-spin. His bowling is tidy and useful, especially when the pitch is dry. He often breaks partnerships and keeps the run rate down.
He is also an excellent fielder. He saves runs, takes sharp catches, and adds great energy to the field.
Family Background
Dhananjaya comes from a middle-class family. His father, Ranjan de Silva, was a politician and a strong supporter of his son’s cricket dreams. Sadly, in 2018, Dhananjaya’s father was shot dead just days before a Test match series. It was a big shock for him and his family.
Despite this heartbreaking loss, Dhananjaya showed great strength and still joined the national squad. He said his father always wanted to see him play for the country, and he didn’t want to let him down.
- Father: Late Ranjan de Silva
- Mother: Name not publicly known
- Siblings: He has brothers and sisters (not much public info)
- Wife: Sanduni Nisansala
- Children: One daughter (name private for family privacy)
His family is his backbone. Even after the loss of his father, he remained focused and continued to grow in his cricket career.
Love Life and Marriage
Dhananjaya de Silva is married to Sanduni Nisansala. They tied the knot in a beautiful traditional Sri Lankan ceremony. The couple is very private and doesn’t share too much about their personal life on social media.
They have one lovely daughter, and he often shares how much he enjoys spending time with his little girl when he’s not playing cricket.
Dhananjaya is a family man. He spends his free time with his wife and daughter. His bond with his family gives him strength both on and off the field.
Controversies and Challenges
Father’s Death in 2018
The biggest tragedy in Dhananjaya’s life was the murder of his father in 2018. His father was a local politician and was shot near their home just before the West Indies Test series. It was very painful for him and his family.
Even with this huge loss, Dhananjaya showed courage and went ahead with the match. He said, “I play for my father now.” This made fans respect him even more.
No Major Personal Controversies
Dhananjaya is known as a disciplined and quiet player. He has never been in any public controversy related to behavior or team issues. He focuses only on cricket and family.
In a cricket world full of drama, Dhananjaya stands out as a peaceful and professional athlete.
Role in Sri Lankan Cricket (As of 2025)
As of 2025, Dhananjaya de Silva is:
- A senior player in the team
- Often captain or vice-captain in absence of seniors
- A match-winner in Tests and ODIs
- A role model for young cricketers
- Part of Sri Lanka’s World Cup plans and Test rebuilding team
He is one of the most complete all-rounders in Sri Lanka right now. His experience, calmness, and talent are very important for the team.
Personality and Life Outside Cricket
Dhananjaya is a calm and humble person. He likes:
- Spending time with family
- Going on holidays with his wife and daughter
- Watching TV and movies
- Reading books
- Training and practicing cricket regularly
He also takes part in charity events and community work in Sri Lanka. He believes in giving back to society and helping poor children who want to play cricket.
Goals and Future Plans
Even at the age of 33 in 2025, Dhananjaya is fit and focused. He wants to:
- Win big tournaments with Sri Lanka
- Help the team reach the 2027 World Cup
- Mentor younger players in the squad
- Play cricket for as long as possible
- Possibly take up coaching or commentary after retirement
He is not thinking about retirement yet. His mind and body are still strong, and fans want to see more of him.
