Wanindu Hasaranga – Sri Lanka’s Rising Star

If you follow cricket, you’ve probably heard the name Wanindu Hasaranga. He’s the leg‑spinning all‑rounder who’s become the talk of every match he plays. In simple terms, he can take wickets with his wrist spin and add handy runs down the order. That mix makes him a rare find for any team.

Early Life and International Debut

Born on July 10, 1997, in Galle, Sri Lanka, Wanindu grew up playing back‑yard cricket with his brothers. He impressed coaches early on with a natural turn on the ball and a quick eye for runs. After shining in school tournaments, he earned a spot in the U‑19 World Cup squad in 2016. That exposure fast‑tracked his entry into the senior team.

Hasaranga made his T20 International debut against Bangladesh in January 2019. He didn’t take a wicket in that first game, but his calm demeanor caught the selectors’ eye. A few months later, he bowled a stunning 5‑for‑20 against Pakistan in a T20I, announcing himself as a genuine match‑winner.

Playing Style and Recent Highlights

Wanindu’s primary weapon is his leg‑spin. He spins the ball sharply, uses a subtle flight, and can bowl a quicker ball that tricks batsmen. What sets him apart is his ability to bowl in the death overs – a time when many spinners shrink away. He often delivers a flat, fast‑bouncing delivery that looks like a seam bowler, confusing the batter.

With the bat, he’s a right‑handed hitter who prefers to go after the ball. He’s comfortable playing both as a finisher and as a stabilizer. His highest ODI score of 70* came against New Zealand in 2022, where he rescued Sri Lanka from a collapse.

In recent IPL action, Hasaranga represented Sunrisers Hyderabad. He finished the season with 14 wickets at an economy of 7.8 and contributed 250 runs. Those numbers proved he can adapt to different conditions and still dominate.

Outside the big leagues, he’s a regular in Sri Lanka’s Tri‑Series and World Cup squads. In the 2023 World Cup, he claimed 11 wickets and scored 150 runs, helping Sri Lanka reach the semi‑finals for the first time in years.

Fans love his upbeat personality. He often shares training tips on social media, encouraging young cricketers to practice spin drills daily. His message is simple: work hard, stay humble, and enjoy the game.

Looking ahead, Wanindu is likely to become Sri Lanka’s key player across formats. He’s already among the top 10 bowlers in ICC rankings for T20Is and is climbing the ODI list fast. If he stays injury‑free, we can expect more five‑wicket hauls and crucial innings.

So whether you’re a casual spectator or a die‑hard cricket fan, keep an eye on Wanindu Hasaranga. His blend of spin, power hitting, and energy makes him a game‑changer you don’t want to miss.