Wanindu Hasaranga steps down as Sri Lanka's T20I captain

Wanindu Hasaranga stepped down as the captain of the Sri Lankan team in T20Is. After his impressive performance in Lanka Premier League, Hasaranaga was expected to bring similar success to Sri Lanka but the all-rounder failed to get the job done, as Sri Lanka were eliminated from the group stage of the T20 World Cup 2024.

Hasaranga's is the second high-profile resignation after head coach Chris Silverwood stepped down following the flop show in the World Cup. Former cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya has been named as the interim coach till the England series. 

Meanwhile, Hasaranga opened up his resignation saying that he tried hard and gave his best effort but acknowledged that it wasn’t enough. However, despite the resignation, Hasaranga promised to support the team whenever needed.

Also read: Chris Silverwood steps down as Sri Lanka head coach

“Sri Lanka will always have my utmost best efforts as a player, and I will support and stand by my team and leadership as always,” said Hasaranga in his resignation letter.

He led the national team in 10 T20Is only. His resignation may also indicate his plans for the future. Plenty of cricketers in international cricket are not willing to take up any important role in the national team to play more franchise cricket. It needs to be seen what Hasaranga does in the future, especially when he already retired from Test cricket earlier.

Also Read: Sanath Jayasuriya named Sri Lanka's interim head coach

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is yet to announce Hasaranga’s replacement. However, with the squad for the India series set to be announced soon, the answer is on the cards. Before Hasaranga, Dasun Shanaka led the fortress but it's unlikely that the team would go back to him. At the moment, Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka seem to be the favourites.

Mendis led the team during the ODI World Cup while Asalanka led the team in the absence of Hasaranga. Meanwhile, the three-match T20I series against India will begin on July 26 and will continue till July 29. After that, the Lankan Lions will also play a three-match ODI series against the neighbours.