Buddhism is one of the oldest and most widespread religions in the world, with over 500 million followers. However, among the cricketing fraternity, Buddhists are a rare and diverse group, as only a handful of cricketers have publicly professed their faith in the teachings of Gautama Buddha.
One of the most prominent Buddhist cricketers is Tillakaratne Dilshan, the former Sri Lankan opener who scored over 10,000 runs in both Tests and ODIs. Dilshan was born to a Muslim father and a Buddhist mother, and his original name was Tuwan Mohammed Dilshan. However, he converted to Buddhism after his parents divorced when he was 16, and changed his name to Tillakaratne Mudiyanselage Dilshan. He also adopted the Sinhalese-Buddhist identity and culture, and became a devout follower of the religion.
No big deal – just a 144km/h ball from Mitchell Starc being ramped over the keeper's head for six! A bit of wizardry from Tillakaratne Dilshan, who turns 44 today pic.twitter.com/KnmOxWz2kd
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 14, 2020
Another Sri Lankan cricketer who changed his religion to Buddhism is Suraj Randiv, the off-spinner who played 12 Tests and 31 ODIs for his country. Randiv was born as Mohammad Masruk Suraj, and belonged to a Muslim family. However, he converted to Buddhism in 2010, and changed his name to Suraj Randiv. He also grew a beard after his conversion, which is a common practice among Buddhist monks.
Yesterday when Shaheen Shah Afridi was bowling wide balls against Virat Kohli to avoid his 100 got to remind me of Suraj Randiv bowling no ball on the suggestion of Kumar Sangakkara against Virender Sehwag
— Bruce Wayne (@_Bruce__007) February 24, 2025
Only difference was Sehwag couldn't score his 100 💔#ViratKohli𓃵… pic.twitter.com/ukK6WVpNKm
These are some of the cricketers who follow Buddhism, either by birth or by choice. They represent a minority but a diverse group of players, who have shown their respect and devotion to one of the world’s oldest and most peaceful religions.
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