Wanindu Hasaranga Spins His Way to 100 T20I Wickets, Joining Lankan Legend
Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has etched his name in cricket history, becoming only the second Sri Lankan bowler to reach the coveted 100-wicket mark in T20 Internationals.
The achievement came during the second T20I against Afghanistan in Dambulla, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most potent spinners in the format.
Hasaranga’s journey to the milestone has been remarkable. Since making his T20I debut in 2019, he has amassed the most wickets of any bowler in men’s cricket, showcasing his consistency and effectiveness.
He achieved the feat in his 63rd T20I, making him the second-fastest bowler after Rashid Khan to reach the 100-wicket mark in this format.
The 24-year-old’s achievement holds even greater significance for Sri Lankan cricket. He joins the legendary Lasith Malinga as the only two Sri Lankan bowlers to achieve this feat, highlighting his exceptional talent and potential. Notably, Hasaranga surpassed Malinga’s pace, reaching the milestone 13 matches faster.
His performance against Afghanistan was a testament to his skill. Despite taking only 2 wickets in his four overs, he conceded a mere 19 runs, boasting an impressive economy rate of 4.75. This performance helped Sri Lanka secure a comfortable victory and take a 2-0 lead in the series.
Hasaranga’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a significant boost for Sri Lankan cricket. His rise to prominence, coupled with his leadership as the T20I captain, signifies a bright future for the island nation in the shortest format of the game.
As he continues to weave his magic with the ball, cricket fans can expect even more remarkable feats from this talented young spinner.
Wanindu Hasaranga will play for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024, having been purchased by the team for ₹1.5 crore during the auction. He previously played for Royal Challengers Banglore but was released before IPL 2024 auction.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s improvement over the past 12-14 months has been remarkable. While he’s always been a skilled bowler, his recent development as a batsman truly elevates him to the status of a standout player, capable of single-handedly winning matches.
