Sri Lankan Spinner Wanindu Hasaranga Shifts Priorities from Tests to Elevate White-Ball Prowess

Renowned Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has opted to conclude his Test cricket journey in favor of maximizing his performance in white-ball formats. With a reputation as one of the globe’s premier spinners in the shortest form of the game, Hasaranga’s influence spans international leagues and his national side.

Reports indicate that Hasaranga communicated his desire to solely partake in white-ball cricket to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). His aspiration to deliver his best across both white-ball formats for the national squad prompted this decision. Acknowledging his wishes, the cricket board has granted his request, marking the official cessation of his Test cricket involvement.

Mr. Ashley De Silva, CEO of SLC, shared the board’s stance through a statement released on Tuesday.

“We respect his choice and are confident that Hasaranga will continue to play a pivotal role within our white-ball program,” the statement affirmed.

Comparatively, Hasaranga’s Test record pales in comparison to his accomplishments in white-ball cricket during his relatively short career. His introduction to Test cricket transpired against South Africa in 2020, and he contributed to Sri Lanka’s Test campaigns in four matches, with the last being against Bangladesh in 2021.

Throughout these four appearances, he secured a mere four wickets, averaging at 100.75. In stark contrast, he has captured 102 wickets across 44 first-class matches since 2016.