'He is my role model and favourite cricketer' - Limansa Thilakarathna on father Dilshan's impact on career

Limansa Thilakarathna, daughter of the legendary Tillakaratne Dilshan, is a member of Sri Lanka's squad in the ongoing Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup 2025. She has piced up six wickets from three matches at a sensational average of 4 and an economy rate of merely 2.48.

On the sidelines of the global event, Limansa spoke to the ICC (International Cricket Council), where she opened up about her father's role in her career. The youngster said that he watches her father's batting and bowling videos during her free time. Limansa described the former Sri Lanka opener as his favourite cricketer.

"Cricket runs in my family. Tillakaratne Dilshan, he’s my dad. And he’s like me as well. So, I’m pretty proud of that. I really enjoy watching him play; in my free time, I watch his videos. His batting, his bowling. He’s a really good all-rounder and a good example for so many people. And even in his fielding, he was one of the best fielders. So, he’s like my favourite cricketer,” Limansa said.

Dilshan created the Dil-Scoop, where he used to ramp bowlers over his head by using their pace. Limansa said that his father taught her how to play the audacious shot.

"Dil-Scoop is something my dad created and I like playing that shot. He’s told me to always watch the ball. Any shot you’re playing, you have to watch the ball well and bring your head down and just scoop the ball. He started my training first and helped me a lot with my batting and bowling. He’s a good role model for me. He gives me tips and I learn from him. It’s fun,” the 16-year-old stated.

Limansa described Dilshan as her role model, recalling that the former Sri Lankan captain helped her hone her skills from a young age.

"He started my training first, he helped me a lot with my batting, bowling. He is a good role model for me. He gives me tips and I learn from him. Yeah, it's fun," Limansa said.

Also Read: ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 Super Six schedule confirmed

The teenager has two brothers and a sister. Being the elder sibling, Limansa likes to lead by example. This is something she carries into her team as well.