IPL 2022: I Am Inspired By Ajantha Mendis – Maheesh Theekshana

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) leg-spinner Maheesh Theekshana said he has been inspired by former Sri Lanka spin bowler Ajantha Mendis.  With his rise to prominence in the Sri Lanka national team, Theekshana impressed with the turn and leg breaks.

With 14 wickets in 15 T20 Internationals at an economy rate of 6.41 in Sri Lankan colors, Theekshana garnered attention across the globe. The 21-year-old also played in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 last year in Oman and UAE.

Maheesh Theekshana has picked 12 wickets in eight games in IPL 2022 so far

Theekshana was sold to CSK for INR 70 lakh in the IPL 2022 auction after serving as a net bowler for the defending champions last season.

The Sri Lankan spinner has picked 12 wickets in eight matches for CSK in IPL 2022 so far. Playing only his second IPL match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Theekshana claimed figures 4/33 to power CSK to their first win of the season.

I am inspired by Ajantha Mendis: Maheesh Theekshana

Theekshana said he didn’t expect CSK to select him this year and revealed his admiration for Mendis, who played 145 matches for Sri Lanka and claimed 288 wickets across all formats.

“I am inspired by Ajantha Mendis because he was my coach. In the last two or three years, I got to chat a lot with Ajantha Mendis,” Theekshana said in a video posted on CSK’s social media platforms.

“I am always trying to get more focused on my game. I have faith in myself. I am always trying to do what I can do. I always follow my strengths. Dreams do come true,” he added. 

Chennai Super Kings have won four games in 11 matches so far in the tournament. The defending champions lost six out of eight games and as a result, MS Dhoni was reinstated in the captain’s role.

CSK will face rivals Mumbai Indians on Thursday (May 12) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Also Read: CSK vs DC Watch – Maheesh Theekshana Traps David Warner In Front Of The Wicket