Sri Lanka Allrounder Wanindu Hasaranga Announces Retirement from Test Cricket

Decision Aimed at Prioritizing Franchise Cricket Opportunities

In a surprising development, Sri Lankan allrounder Wanindu Hasaranga has chosen to step away from Test cricket at the age of 26. The decision is said to be motivated by his desire to focus more extensively on franchise cricket tournaments, aligning with his goals in the limited-overs format.

While Hasaranga has participated in four Test matches for Sri Lanka, he has struggled to make a significant impact with the ball, managing only four wickets at a considerably high average of 100.75. Nonetheless, he showcased his batting prowess during the series in South Africa, contributing with a noteworthy half-century.

Despite not securing a regular spot in Sri Lanka's Test squad over the last couple of years, Hasaranga was recently involved in wider training groups in preparation for Test series. However, he subsequently found himself excluded from the Test squad itself. Notably, his engagement in training commitments in Sri Lanka hindered his ability to accept offers from various franchise cricket leagues, including Major League Cricket, where he withdrew just before its commencement.

While Hasaranga's official statement attributes his retirement from Test cricket to his aspiration to prolong his career as a limited-overs specialist, it's important to note that he hasn't faced any significant long-term injuries throughout his career.

In contrast to previous instances where Sri Lanka Cricket intervened in players' early retirement decisions, Hasaranga's discussions with the cricket board were reportedly amicable. The board appears to have come to terms with the fact that Hasaranga may not have a future in Test cricket and has given him the liberty to explore other opportunities while ensuring his availability for Sri Lanka's white-ball matches.

"We will accept his decision and are confident that Hasaranga will be a vital part of our white-ball program going forward," remarked Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket.

In his cricketing journey so far, Hasaranga has featured in 44 first-class games, clinching 102 wickets. He boasts three first-class centuries and 19 half-centuries, reflecting his all-round capabilities.

Having represented Sri Lanka in 48 ODIs and 58 T20Is, Hasaranga remains a crucial asset in the limited-overs setup. He is currently leading his side B-Love Kandy in the Lanka Premier League and is slated to participate in Sri Lanka's upcoming campaigns in the Asia Cup and World Cup.