In a surprising turn of events, the cricket world was taken aback as Sri Lanka’s dynamic all-rounder, Wanindu Hasaranga, officially announced his retirement from Test cricket. The decision, disclosed by the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) on Tuesday, has sparked a range of emotions among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
The SLC, in a press release, confirmed the acceptance of Hasaranga’s choice to step away from the Test format. This announcement comes at a juncture where Hasaranga’s white-ball cricket career is at its zenith, making the decision a blend of strategic focus and personal aspiration. Having made his Test debut for Sri Lanka in December 2020, Hasaranga played in four Test matches during his brief stint. His final appearance in Test cricket occurred in August 2021, marking the conclusion of his impactful journey in the traditional format.
Ashley De Silva, the CEO of the SLC, conveyed the organization’s understanding and endorsement of Hasaranga’s decision. In an official statement, De Silva stated, “While his departure from the Test arena is saddening, we are confident that he will continue to be a vital asset to our white-ball cricket program.” The sentiment echoes the sentiments of cricket fans worldwide, who recognize Hasaranga’s potential to further excel in the limited-overs cricket domain.
As the cricket community processes this unexpected twist in Hasaranga’s career, his journey and contributions to the sport remain a testament to his skill and dedication. The announcement serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of cricket and the intriguing narratives that unfold both on and off the field.
Wanindu Hasaranga Stats & Records in Test Cricket
Batting Summary
| M | Inn | NO | Runs | HS | Avg | BF | SR | 100 | 200 | 50 | 4s | 6s |
| 4 | 7 | 0 | 196 | 59 | 28 | 227 | 86.34 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 29 | 1 |
Bowling Summary
| M | Inn | B | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Econ | Avg | SR | 5W | 10W |
| 4 | 7 | 674 | 403 | 4 | 4/171 | 4/171 | 3.59 | 100.75 | 168.5 | 0 | 0 |
Wanindu Hasaranga’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in his cricketing journey. While his decision to focus on white-ball cricket may have surprised some, it reflects the changing dynamics of modern cricket, where players often tailor their careers to suit their strengths and aspirations. As cricket enthusiasts bid farewell to his Test career, they are eagerly anticipating to witness Hasarang’s continued influence on the limited-overs stage, where his talent and versatility will shine even brighter.