After scoring consecutive centuries against Bangladesh in Sri Lanka’s World Test Championship opener, Pathum Nissanka is now aiming for a remarkable milestone. With the upcoming T20I series in sight, the Sri Lankan opener hopes to secure a spot among the ICC’s top ten batters across all three formats, as reported by Telecom Asia Sport. Already ranked seventh in T20Is, the 27-year-old has demonstrated his prowess in longer formats with consistent performances that have turned the tide in Sri Lanka’s favour. Last year, Nissanka made history as the first Sri Lankan to score a double hundred in One-day International cricket. He followed up with a match-winning century at The Oval, leading Sri Lanka to their first Test victory in England in a decade. Now, following back-to-back centuries against Bangladesh—including a career-best 187 in Galle and a refined 158 in Colombo—Nissanka is laying the groundwork for greatness. Former captain Angelo Mathews, who recently stepped away from the longest format, praised Nissanka’s ability to bat deep. “He’s got the game, the grit, and the gears. He doesn’t just get starts – he bats deep. That’s the hallmark of a player who wins you matches,” Mathews told Telecom Asia Sport. In his two innings against Bangladesh, Nissanka displayed exceptional discipline and strategic play. “Not once did he attempt a cut shot, nor did he fall for the bait of the short ball — even as Bangladesh positioned three fielders on the deep leg side. The pull shot was also avoided. Instead, he stuck to his scoring zones, working the spinners and driving elegantly on both front and back foot,” the report noted. Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya highlighted Nissanka’s rare discipline in modern cricket. “In today’s age of T20 razzle-dazzle, that kind of discipline is rare. When Pathum gets in, he doesn’t give it away. That’s what sets him apart,” said Jayasuriya. Yet, despite his composure, a double hundred in Tests has still eluded Nissanka. “Twice the second new ball has ended his innings. But once he learns to navigate that challenge, his run-scoring potential could increase dramatically,” the report added. Nissanka’s rise has been instrumental in Sri Lanka’s white-ball resurgence. After missing out on Champions Trophy qualification—a tough blow for a nation that once redefined ODI cricket—Sri Lanka has climbed to fourth in the ICC rankings, with series victories over India and Australia. His teammates believe the goal is not just a top-ten ranking but the top spot. Publicly, he admires Virat Kohli and aims to break into the elite club. Privately, those close to him whisper of even grander ambitions—becoming the number one batter in the world. With IANS Inputs