Ex-RCB star comes out of retirement from Tests, but got suspended by ICC

Wanindu Hasaranga had retired from the format in August 2023.

Ex-RCB star comes out of retirement from Tests, but got suspended by ICC

Wanindu Hasaranga (Image via ESPN)

Wanindu Hasaranga, the ex-RCB star, is one of the best limited-overs leg spinners in the game right now. His abilities with the ball and bat is one highly rated by franchises around the world. Despite being a great player with the white ball, he didn’t have the same returns in the longest format. 

Wanindu Hasaranga averages 39.65 with the bat and 27.66 with the ball in First Class cricket, but failed to replicate the same in Test cricket. In the four Tests he played, he averages 100.75 with the ball. He was eventually dropped, with the all-rounder retiring from the format altogether. 

YouTube video

Seven months later, he announced that he was going to return for the Test series with Bangladesh. Unfortunately, his return to the format has now been canceled as he has been suspended by the ICC. 

Genuine comeback or smart move? 

Wanindu Hasaranga had received three demerit points after he showed dissent during the final ODI of the Sri Lanka-Bangladesh series. It happened in the 37th over, when the all-rounder snatched the ball off the umpire’s hand and ridiculed the umpire for a decision. 

Wanindu Hasaranga
Wanindu Hasaranga (Image via ESPN)

Being awarded three demerit points, it brought up his total points to 8 in the past 24 months. The eight demerit points have been converted to 4 suspension points, which means he would miss 2 Tests or 4 ODIs/T20Is, depending on what comes first. 

If Hasaranga was not selected for the Test series with Bangladesh, he would’ve missed the group stages of the 2024 T20 World Cup and a match of the super eight stage. Now most don’t know if he announced his comeback to Test cricket so that he could genuinely play or if he could ensure he was available for the World Cup. 

In case you missed!