Wanindu Hasaranga to Miss IPL 2024 Due to Injury
The upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will witness the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga, the talented spinner from Sri Lanka, in the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) squad. Hasaranga’s decision to skip the IPL comes as a result of an injury to his left heel. The news has disappointed many fans, especially considering his impressive performance in previous editions of the tournament. In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding Hasaranga’s absence, the reasons behind it, and the impact it may have on the SunRisers Hyderabad team.
Hasaranga’s IPL Journey
Hasaranga’s IPL journey started in the previous season when he was picked by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after an intense bidding war. However, his stint with RCB was short-lived, as he was released by the franchise ahead of the 2024 IPL mini-auction. Nevertheless, his exceptional skills as a spinner did not go unnoticed, and SunRisers Hyderabad acquired him for his base price of ₹1.5 crore.
A Rollercoaster Couple of Weeks
Hasaranga’s journey leading up to the IPL has been quite eventful. Initially, he was set to miss the initial phase of the tournament due to his decision to return to Test cricket. However, an unexpected turn of events opened up the possibility for his participation in the IPL once again. Hasaranga was asked to serve a ban during the Test series against Bangladesh for criticizing match officials during his tenure as the white-ball captain earlier in 2024.
Despite the ban being lifted, Hasaranga did not feature in the first two matches for SunRisers Hyderabad, leaving fans curious about his absence. It has now been revealed that his decision to skip the IPL is driven by the need to focus on his recovery and prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June.
Injury Woes
The primary reason behind Hasaranga’s absence from the IPL is a left heel injury. The spinner has been playing with injections to manage the pain, but it has become evident that further rehabilitation is necessary to fully resolve the issue. In an effort to seek the best possible treatment, Hasaranga will be traveling to Dubai to consult with a specialist. The aim is to ensure his full fitness ahead of the T20 World Cup, where he will be representing Sri Lanka on the international stage.
Manager Denies Financial Motives
Speculations may arise regarding Hasaranga’s decision to skip the IPL due to financial reasons, given his significantly reduced base price compared to previous seasons. However, his manager vehemently denies this claim. According to the manager, money was not a factor in the decision-making process. If it were, they could have enrolled him at a higher base price. The manager emphasizes that Hasaranga’s primary concern is his ankle’s well-being, which requires proper care and attention. Additionally, serving as the captain of the national team adds further responsibility to his plate.
Impact on SunRisers Hyderabad
Hasaranga’s absence from the SunRisers Hyderabad squad leaves a void in their spin department. His inclusion in the team was seen as a steal deal at the auction, considering his exceptional performance in the shortest format of the game. The franchise will now need to explore alternatives to ensure a balanced team composition. The current spin department comprises Shahbaz Ahmed, Washington Sundar, and Mayank Markhande, but finding a suitable replacement for Hasaranga will be crucial to maintain the team’s equilibrium.
Conclusion
Wanindu Hasaranga’s decision to skip the IPL due to a left heel injury is a setback for both the player and SunRisers Hyderabad. As fans eagerly await his return to the field, his focus on recovery and preparation for the T20 World Cup is understandable. The SunRisers Hyderabad franchise will need to adjust their strategy and find a suitable replacement to maintain their competitive edge. While Hasaranga’s absence will be felt, it provides an opportunity for another talented player to shine on the IPL stage. As the tournament progresses, cricket enthusiasts will be keeping a close eye on the developments surrounding Hasaranga’s recovery and his future performances in international cricket.
