Biography

Muthuthanthrige Vishwa Thilina Fernando, born on September 18, 1991, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a professional cricketer known for his left-arm medium-fast bowling. Educated at St. Sebastian's College in Moratuwa, Fernando began his first-class cricket career in 2012 with Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club. His early performances, including 26 wickets in his debut season, showcased his potential and led to his selection for national duties.

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Fernando made his Test debut for Sri Lanka on August 4, 2016, against Australia in Galle. In this match, he took the wicket of Joe Burns in his first over, contributing to Sri Lanka's victory in the series. He later debuted in One Day Internationals on August 20, 2017, against India, and played his sole Twenty20 International on December 20, 2017, also against India.

A significant highlight of Fernando's career was during the 2019 Test series against South Africa. In the first Test, he formed a crucial 78-run partnership with Kusal Perera for the last wicket, leading Sri Lanka to a historic one-wicket victory. Fernando's bowling was instrumental throughout the series, where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker with 12 wickets at an average of 18.91, aiding Sri Lanka in becoming the first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa.

In January 2021, Fernando achieved his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket during the second Test against South Africa. His domestic career includes stints with teams such as Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club, Kandy Tuskers, Chattogram Challengers, Durham, Yorkshire, and Warwickshire. Fernando's journey reflects his resilience and commitment to Sri Lankan cricket, making him a valuable asset in the national team's bowling lineup.