Sri Lanka’s left‑handed batter Sonal Dinusha was named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for August 2026, the first time the award has been given to a Sri Lankan cricketer.
The accolade was awarded in recognition of Dinusha’s performance in Sri Lanka’s two‑match Test series against India, which concluded in September 2026.
Across the series Dinusha scored 420 runs at an average of 140, including three centuries and one half‑century. He was the leading run‑getter for Sri Lanka in the series.
In the first Test at Colombo, Dinusha made 100 in the first innings and 84 in the second, although Sri Lanka lost the match by 165 runs. In the second Test at Galle, he recorded twin centuries of 103 and an unbeaten 133, helping Sri Lanka secure a draw and preserve a 1‑0 series lead.
Dinusha was named Player of the Match in the first Test at Colombo, and his performances were pivotal in Sri Lanka’s 1‑0 series victory.
“This recognition means so much to me, especially so early in my career, and I’m truly grateful to the ICC for this honour,” Dinusha said. “Scoring three centuries was a dream come true, made even more meaningful by achieving them in Colombo and Galle in front of our home fans. Although we did not get the overall result we hoped for, the way our team fought back in the second match showed the character, belief and determination we have as a side. I’m proud to have shared that fight with my teammates.”
Dinusha made his Test debut for Sri Lanka last year during a home series against Bangladesh. In a short time, he has become a key contributor in the longest format for his country.
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