Wanindu Hasaranga Faces Chronic Heel Pain: Impact on Sunrisers Hyderabad and Sri Lanka’s Cricket Plans
Wanindu Hasaranga, the stellar all-rounder from Sri Lanka, is grappling with chronic pain in his left heel, casting a shadow over his participation in the upcoming cricketing events, including the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad and potentially the T20 World Cup. Despite showcasing remarkable resilience by playing through substantial pain in Sri Lanka’s recent series against Bangladesh, the situation has escalated to a point where overseas medical consultation is deemed necessary.
The Medical Predicament and Its Ripple Effects
Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) medical team, after assessing Hasaranga’s condition, suspects the pain originates from wear and tear in the musculo-skeletal apparatus of his left heel. This diagnosis has prompted them to advise Hasaranga to seek further medical opinion abroad. This development means Hasaranga will not be joining the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad imminently, with no definitive timeline for his return. The primary focus seems to be on ensuring his fitness for the T20 World Cup in June, where he is poised to play a crucial role for his national team.
Hasaranga’s IPL Stint and Disciplinary Concerns
Hasaranga’s absence is a significant blow to Sunrisers Hyderabad, especially considering his spectacular performance in the 2022 IPL season with Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he bagged 26 wickets. The team had high expectations from him, reflected in his auction price of INR 1.5 crore (approximately USD $181,000). Moreover, his recent suspension due to accruing demerit points for a conduct breach adds a layer of complexity to his cricketing journey this year.
Implications for Sri Lanka’s Test and T20 Ambitions
Hasaranga’s decision to return to Test cricket, after announcing retirement last year, and his subsequent inclusion in the squad for the ICC World Test Championship series against Bangladesh, is a strategic move. It allows him to serve his disciplinary ban during the Test matches, ensuring his availability for the T20 World Cup. However, this decision, made without informing Sunrisers Hyderabad, could have implications for his IPL participation in the future.
Conclusion
Wanindu Hasaranga’s current medical and disciplinary challenges present a complicated scenario for both Sunrisers Hyderabad and the Sri Lankan national team. As he seeks medical advice abroad, the cricketing world watches closely, hoping for a speedy recovery and return to the field. How will Hasaranga’s situation evolve, and what impact will it have on his team’s plans and his own cricketing future?