New Delhi, Oct. 2 -- Javelin wasn't Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage's first love. Instead it was cricket, especially fast bowling as the Sri Lankan dreamt of representing his country at the top level. Born in Kalutara, south of the Sri Lankan capital Colombo, Pathirage played cricket until 2019 and even clocked 134kmph during a nationwide talent search.

But life took a different turn while he studying at the St Peter's College in, Colombo, where his talent at throwing sports grabbed limelight - in discuss throw and shot put. It was his father, who encouraged Pathirage into athletics, with the 23-year-old finally choosing javelin.

The decision turned out to be life changing as Pathirage has become a new world-wide sensation, especially with hi...