Tillakaratne Mudiyanselage Dilshan, or TM Dilshan as cricket fans affectionately know him, is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic players, standing at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) with a lean, athletic build that made him a force on the field. Born on October 14, 1976, in the coastal town of Kalutara, Sri Lanka, Dilshan’s journey to fame wasn’t just about natural talent—it was about breaking boundaries and redefining the art of batting. He’s the man who invented the unforgettable “Dilscoop,” a shot that sent balls flying over the wicketkeeper’s head, leaving audiences and opponents alike in awe. His ability to think outside the box set him apart from his peers and won him fans around the world.
Growing up with a Malay father and Sinhalese mother, Dilshan initially went by the name Tuwan Mohammad Dilshan before converting from Islam to Buddhism at the age of 16—a personal decision that also marked his change of name. With a reputation for being aggressive and inventive on the field, Dilshan made his Test debut in 1999 against Zimbabwe and soon became a regular in the Sri Lankan lineup. By the time he retired in 2016, Dilshan had left a permanent mark on the game, especially in One Day Internationals (ODIs) where he scored over 10,000 runs, a feat only a few Sri Lankans have achieved.
Quick Profile:
- Full Name: Tillakaratne Mudiyanselage Dilshan
- Date of Birth: October 14, 1976
- Age: 48 years (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Kalutara, Sri Lanka
- Nickname: TM, Dilee, Mr. Pallekele
- Nationality: Sri Lankan
- Ethnicity: Mixed Malay and Sinhalese heritage
- Religion: Converted from Islam to Buddhism at 16
Physical Stats:
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: 70 kg (154 lbs)
- Body Measurements: Chest – 40 inches, Waist – 33 inches, Biceps – 14 inches
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: 9 (US)
Dilshan was as versatile as they come—a hard-hitting right-handed batsman, a crafty right-arm off-spinner, and one of the best fielders in the game. Sporting the international shirt number 23, he consistently played as an all-rounder and was even a wicket-keeper batsman when the team needed him in that role. Known for his stylish and often risky strokes, his contribution went beyond statistics; he made cricket thrilling and unpredictable.
His achievements are staggering. Dilshan debuted in Test cricket on November 18, 1999, against Zimbabwe, and made his ODI debut just a few weeks later. His T20I debut followed in 2006 against England. Over the years, he played for a variety of teams, including Sri Lanka National Team (1999-2016), Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sydney Thunder, and Dhaka Gladiators, among others.
Career Highlights:
- 10,000+ ODI Runs: Dilshan is one of only a handful of Sri Lankans to hit this milestone.
- Inventor of the “Dilscoop”: A revolutionary shot that’s still a crowd-pleaser.
- Top Scorer in 2011 World Cup: Scored 500 runs, including a century against England in the quarter-finals.
- Centuries Across All Formats as Captain: A rare achievement highlighting his versatility and skill.
- Player of the Series: Won multiple awards, including the ICC T20I Performance of the Year for his semi-final performance in the 2009 T20 World Cup.
- T20I Records: First Sri Lankan to hit 200 boundaries and score over 1,500 runs in T20 internationals.
- Consistent ODI Performance: Scored over 1,000 ODI runs in four separate years (2009-2015), showing his consistency at the highest level.
On the personal front, Dilshan’s life is just as colorful as his career. He first married Nilanka Vithanage, with whom he has a son named Resadu. Later, he married actress Manjula Thilini, and together, they have two daughters, Resandi and Lasadi, and two sons, Dihela and a younger son born in 2017. Family plays a big role in Dilshan’s life, as he often juggles his responsibilities with his passion for business and entertainment.
Height and Physical Stats: An Athlete’s Build
Dilshan’s height of 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) perfectly complemented his athleticism, making him a formidable presence on the cricket field. His lean yet strong physique allowed him to excel as an all-rounder, showcasing both power and agility in his play.
Physical Stats:
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: 70 kg (154 lbs)
- Body Measurements: Chest – 40 inches, Waist – 33 inches, Biceps – 14 inches
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: 9 (US)
Beyond cricket, he’s made a name for himself in business and media. His boutique hotel, the D Pavilion Inn in Colombo, opened in 2014, with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa attending its grand inauguration. Dilshan has also dabbled in media, appearing on Sri Lankan TV in shows like Kopi Kade and Mithuu. His ventures into music, where he collaborated with his wife, have further strengthened his bond with fans beyond the cricket pitch.
TM Dilshan’s Net Worth
Tillakaratne Dilshan, a celebrated figure in the world of cricket, has amassed a significant net worth throughout his illustrious career. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is around $10 million. This wealth is a result of his successful playing career, lucrative endorsements, and various business ventures, including his boutique hotel, the D Pavilion Inn in Colombo. Dilshan’s continued involvement in media and entertainment also contributes to his financial standing, showcasing his ability to thrive both on and off the cricket field.
Legacy
Dilshan isn’t just remembered for his stats; he’s cherished for his contributions to the game’s creativity. His “Dilscoop” alone changed how batsmen approach innovative shot-making. Inspiring countless young cricketers, Dilshan’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and a drive to be different. Today, he stands not only as one of Sri Lanka’s cricketing greats but as a beloved icon who has shaped modern cricket in ways that will continue to influence future generations.