Cricket in Malaysia may not yet rival the passion for the game seen in other parts of the world, but one name that has become synonymous with elevating the sport’s prominence in the country is Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam.
Born on November 15, 1986, in Selangor, Suhan is not only celebrated as one of Malaysia’s finest batsmen but also as a transformative leader who left an indelible mark on the nation’s cricketing history. With over 3,000 international runs and a legacy spanning 13 years, his career is a testament to perseverance, passion, and unwavering dedication.
Early Life and Cricketing Beginnings of Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam
Born into a cricket-loving family in Selangor, Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam discovered his passion for the sport at a young age. From playing in the neighborhood to representing his school, his talent was evident early on. In 2005, at just 18 years old, Suhan made his debut for the Malaysian national team against Singapore. It was the beginning of a journey that would see him evolve into one of the country’s most dependable middle-order batsmen.
A Star in the Making
Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam’s meteoric rise began during the 2008 ACC Trophy Elite tournament. Scoring an impressive 278 runs at an average of 55.60, Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam not only claimed the Best Batsman Award but also showcased his ability to perform under pressure. His centuries against Singapore and Saudi Arabia were masterclasses in timing, technique, and temperament.
His exceptional performance led to his appointment as the Malaysian team captain at just 22 years of age. Taking over the reins from Rohan Suppiah, Suhan demonstrated a natural flair for leadership. Under his captaincy, Malaysia achieved significant milestones, cementing its place as a formidable cricketing nation in the region.
Leading Malaysia to Glory
As captain, Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam’s strategic brilliance shone through. He led the national team to victory in the T20 version of the 2010 Air Niugini Supa Series in Papua New Guinea, defeating strong opponents like Hong Kong and Singapore. Additionally, Malaysia retained the Saudara Cup and Stan Nagaiah Trophy for three consecutive years under his leadership.
Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam often spent his off-seasons playing grade cricket in Australia. This exposure to high-quality cricket elevated his game and contributed to his consistency, allowing him to average over 45 during his peak years.
Transition and Redemption
In late 2013, Suhan stepped down as captain, allowing him to focus entirely on his batting. Though he faced a brief slump, his resilience shone through in the 2014 ICC World Cricket League Division Three. His match-winning century against Singapore in the third-place playoff not only helped Malaysia secure a record-high ranking of 23rd in the world but also reaffirmed his status as a batting maestro.
Suhan’s adaptability came to the fore again during the 2015 ACC Twenty20 Cup when he was promoted to the role of an opening batsman. Thriving in the new position, he scored 174 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 155.35, including an explosive 86 off 45 balls against Kuwait.
Domestic Dominance
Suhan Kumar Alagaratnam’s prowess wasn’t limited to the international stage. Domestically, he represented both Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, leading Selangor to an unbeaten season and the Malaysian Premier League title in 2015. His leadership and consistency were instrumental in nurturing the next generation of Malaysian cricketers.
The Break and Return
After amassing over 3,000 runs for Malaysia, Suhan decided to take a break from international cricket. Moving to Canada, he continued to play at the club level, honing his skills and rediscovering his love for the game.
In 2018, after a three-year hiatus, Suhan made a triumphant return to the Malaysian national team during the ICC World Cricket League Division Four. In the tournament’s opening match, he top-scored with 61 runs, leading Malaysia to an upset victory over tournament favorites Uganda. His return injected new energy into the team, proving that his experience and leadership remained invaluable.
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