The Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket semi-final produced a remarkable moment in T20I history. Sri Lankan spinner Tharindu Ratnayake became the first bowler to dismiss two batsmen in the same T20 International while bowling with both his left and right hands.
Two wickets, two different bowling arms
Ratnayake first operated as a left-arm spinner and dismissed Sanju Samson during India’s innings. Later in the match, he switched to his right arm and bowled off-spin.
His second breakthrough came when Shivam Dube attempted a powerful shot towards the cover region. Arachchige completed a diving one-handed catch, giving Ratnayake his second wicket of the innings.
What made the achievement extraordinary was that both wickets came from the same bowler using different arms.
What makes Ratnayake different?
A player capable of performing equally well with both hands is described as “ambidextrous.”
Ratnayake has developed this unusual ability into a genuine cricketing weapon. With his right arm, he bowls off-spin, while his left-arm repertoire includes orthodox spin and the googly.
For a batter, facing the same bowler who can change his bowling arm can create an entirely different tactical challenge. The angle, line, turn and release point can all change when the bowler switches sides.
He has already created history in Test cricket
This isn’t the first time Ratnayake has achieved something extraordinary.
He previously took wickets with both hands in a Test against Bangladesh in 2025. His performance in the Asian Games semi-final means he has now produced the same remarkable feat in both Test cricket and T20I cricket.
A rare skill in international cricket
Switching bowling arms during a match is extremely unusual at the international level. While cricket laws allow a bowler to change the arm with which they bowl, the umpire must be informed before the delivery.
Ratnayake’s ability to bowl effectively with both arms takes that flexibility to another level.
His performance against India has therefore added another remarkable chapter to his growing reputation-and given T20I cricket a record that is unlikely to be repeated anytime soon.