Wanindu Hasaranga Steps Down as Sri Lanka’s T20I Captain, New Leader Still to be Named 

After an unsuccessful reign as a leader of the team, Wanindu Hasaranga has stepped down as Sri Lanka’s T20I captain, the all-rounder announced on Thursday. Sri Lanka were knocked out of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 from group stage.

The 26-year-old sent an official letter to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on July 11, requesting to be relieved of the position immediately. It is speculated that the pressure was from the top of the management which led to his resignation.

In a press release, Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed the resignation and stated that Hasaranga described his decision as being in “the best interests of the team.”

“Sri Lanka will always have my utmost best efforts as a player, and I will support and stand by my team and leadership as always,” Hasaranga said in his resignation letter.

The resignation follows Sri Lanka’s disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, where the team failed to progress beyond the group stages. Hasaranga has also faced disciplinary challenges, including multiple suspensions by the ICC and SLC. Most recently, he was charged with a violation of clothing and equipment regulations in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL).

Sri Lanka has yet to name a new captain. The upcoming bilateral series at home against India will be the immediate challenge for the new leadership.