PSL 2023: Wanindu Hasaranga out of tournament to manage workload

Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga will not be participating in the PSL 2023 as Sri Lanka are looking to manage his workload. Hasaranga was expected to be partially available for Quetta Gladiators as he was scheduled to participate in the six games before leaving the franchise on March 3. However, the Gladiators have confirmed that the 25-year-old has been ruled out of the entire season and they are looking for a replacement.

Hasaranga was supposed to join the team at the start of the season before he would have been replaced with Afghanistan spinner Qais Ahmad. But the Sri Lankan spinner’s unavailability has forced the Gladiators to include Ahmad in their first three games so far. 

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, SLC CEO Ashley de Silva confirmed that Hasaranga "wouldn't ask" for a No-Objection Certificate, as he had domestic commitments with the National Super League, as well as international series to play in New Zealand.

Hasaranga is likely keeping himself fresh for the IPL, which is his top priority for him. While the IPL and the national duties cannot be avoided by Hasaranga, there is also significant pressure on him to play in SLC's local tournaments, leaving the PSL lower on the priority list.

The Gladiators have not got off to a great start to their PSL season as they have lost three out of the four matches played so far. Notably, they have not qualified for the playoffs since 2020. 

Kusal Mendis opts out due to international commitments

Meanwhile, another Sri Lankan player Kusal Mendis, who was signed up by Lahore Qalandars to replace Jordan Cox, is also unavailable. Mendis is an integral part of the Sri Lankan Test team and has officially been part of their preparations for the tour to New Zealand. Him not participating in PSL despite being signed up by the franchise is a clear sign that Sri Lankan cricketers are keeping international cricket as their priority.

Qalandars have roped in West Indies ODI captain Shai Hope to replace Mendis in their squad. This is second time that Hasaranga has not been allowed to play in a T20 league in the recent past. He was earlier asked to withdraw from his Hundred Contract with Manchester Originals.

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