Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando has captured global attention with his remarkable performances on the recent England tour, positioning himself as one of the most exciting fast bowlers in international cricket. The right-arm quick, who led the wicket charts during the three-match Test series, claimed an impressive 17 wickets, including a sensational five-wicket haul at Lord’s, marking a breakthrough moment in his career.

Fernando’s standout performances not only helped Sri Lanka compete strongly but also earned high praise from experts, with many predicting a bright future for the young speedster. Among those hailing his potential is Sri Lanka's bowling coach Aaqib Javed, who believes Asitha Fernando has what it takes to become one of the all-time greats in Sri Lankan cricket.

“I think this guy (Asitha Fernando) is improving and in the bowling ranking as well. I think he has got all the potential. I was discussing with him that in another seven to eight years if you look at yourself, you might become the greatest ever Sri Lanka fast bowler,” said Javed at the post-series presentation.

During the Manchester Test, Javed went as far as comparing Fernando to Pakistan’s renowned swing bowler Mohammad Asif, whose ability to move the ball both ways without any visible change in wrist action made him one of the most feared bowlers in his era.

“I told him (Asitha Fernando) that after Mohammad Asif of Pakistan, I saw that quality in him. Not many people know about his ability. Without changing his wrist, he can swing the ball both ways,” said Javed