In a strategic move, Sri Lanka Cricket is contemplating the appointment of Wanindu Hasaranga as the new captain for their T20I International squad. The dynamic bowling all-rounder, currently recovering from an injury sustained during the Lanka Premier League in August, missed crucial tournaments such as the ODI World Cup and the Asia Cup earlier this year.
According to a report by adaderana, “All-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga is tipped to be named the captain of the Sri Lanka T20 squad, while it has been confirmed that Dimuth Karunaratne will remain the Test Captain.”
The SLC Selection Committee is scheduled to convene on Monday to finalize this decision in preparation for Zimbabwe’s Tour of Sri Lanka in January 2024.
Hasaranga, a pivotal force in Sri Lanka’s bowling lineup, notably topped the wicket charts during the Men’s ODI World Cup Qualifier tournament in Zimbabwe. His stellar performance played a significant role in securing Sri Lanka’s spot for the mega event in India.
Despite missing out on major tournaments due to injury, Hasaranga’s leadership role could mark a new chapter for Sri Lanka’s T20I fortunes. The upcoming three-match ODI series and subsequent three T20Is against Zimbabwe, commencing on January 06 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, provide an opportune platform for Hasaranga to showcase his captaincy skills.
Having been released by the Royal Challengers Bangalore, Hasaranga found a new home with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the mini-auction, securing a deal worth Rs 1.50 crore.
As Sri Lanka looks ahead to a fresh era under Hasaranga’s potential captaincy, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the official announcement following the deliberations of the SLC Selection Committee.