15 August 2023, Mumbai: Hasaranga, 26, made his Test debut in December 2020 against South Africa, and since then has featured in only four Tests.
His last Test was against Bangladesh at home, more than two years ago in April 2021. Hasaranga informed Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) of his decision to retire on Tuesday, 15 August and the board accepted it.Hasaranga made his Test debut for Sri Lanka in 2020 and played four matches in total. He took four wickets at an average of 100.75. However, he was much more successful in limited-overs cricket, taking 91 wickets in 58 T20Is and 67 wickets in 48 ODIs. He is currently ranked third in the ICC T20I bowling rankings.
Big blow to Sri Lanka’s Test teamHasaranga’s retirement is a big blow to Sri Lanka’s Test team, who is already struggling in International Cricket. However, it is understandable, given his desire to prolong his career in the shorter formats. He is a valuable asset to any T20 and ODI team and will surely be in demand in the upcoming franchise tournaments.
“I have decided to retire from Test cricket in order to prolong my career as a limited-overs specialist. I have enjoyed my time playing Test cricket for Sri Lanka, but I feel that this is the best decision for me at this stage of my career. I would like to thank Sri Lanka Cricket for their support over the years, and I wish the team all the best in the future.”
Changing landscape of cricket
Hasaranga’s retirement is a reminder of the changing landscape of cricket. Test cricket is still considered the pinnacle of cricket, but it is no longer the only format that matters. The shorter formats, particularly T20 cricket, are becoming increasingly popular and lucrative, and this is attracting players around the world.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s Career Details:
He was born in Matale, Sri Lanka, in 1997. He made his ODI debut for Sri Lanka in 2017. He made his T20I debut for Sri Lanka in 2019. He was named the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2022. He is a leg-spinner and a lower-order batsman. He is known for his ability to take wickets in the middle overs.Hasaranga is a talented cricketer who has achieved great things in his career, and he will be missed in Test cricket. However, he can still significantly contribute to his team in the shorter formats.
By ASC Priya