‘My favourite footballer is Neymar’ – RCB's Wanindu Hasaranga opens up about his special celebrations

Wanindu Hasaranga was at his best in Royal Challengers Bangalore’s recent fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders. The Sri Lankan leg-spinner made the ball talk at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Mumbai and took a four-wicket haul. Riding on his prowess, RCB recorded a three-wicket win, opening their account on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 points table.

Notably, Hasaranga, besides his on-field heroics, also bagged the limelight due to his special celebrations. Apparently, he imitates Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr’s trademark celebrations after taking wickets. After bagging the Player-of-the-Match award against KKR, Hasaranga opened up about his celebrations and also revealed Neymar is his favourite football player. The 24-year-old further said he doesn’t take too much pressure while being on the field.

I don’t take any pressure. That’s why I feel I got success: Wanindu Hasaranga

“Crucial situation, I got only four and got out. I am really happy. Especially with the dew, it is very hard to bowl. My favorite footballer is Neymar and that is his celebration which I do. When I go play, I don’t take any pressure. That’s why I feel I got success,” Hasaranga said after the game.

Meanwhile, KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer also lavished massive praises on Hasaranga. He revealed that the Knight Riders had a specific plan to tackle the leg-spinner but the Sri Lankan youngster defied their strategy.

“He (Wanindu Hasaranga) bowled really well, he got off to a good start after getting my wicket. I was able to read him pretty well at the start. We had decided that we’ll play him as an off-spinner but unfortunately he bowled really good lines and lengths. He’s also very experienced and he was getting some help on this wicket. Congratulations to him,” said Shreyas after the game.

It must be noted that Hasaranga bagged a whopping INR 10.75 crore in the mega auction. He has so far justified the price tag, scalping five wickets in two games. The 24-year-old would like to extend his sensational run when RCB meet the Rajasthan Royals in their next fixture. The encounter takes place at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 5.