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[Saba Sports News] The situation surrounding Wanindu Hasaranga continues to intrigue. The Sri Lankan spinner, potentially avoiding ICC sanctions for the Twenty20 World Cup due to his Test squad selection, has yet to join his IPL franchise, even a week into the league.
“His arrival is imminent,” stated his manager, while Sunrisers Hyderabad eagerly await his integration. However, no specific timeline for his arrival in Hyderabad was provided. “All I can say is he will definitely join the team,” the manager added.
Hasaranga was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for his base price of Rs 1.5 crore after being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore, who had previously bought him for INR 10.75 crore in 2022. Despite perceptions that he may have prioritized money, his manager clarified, “If money was a factor, we could have set a higher base price. He has to take care of his ankle and is also the captain of the national team.”
From Sunrisers Hyderabad’s perspective, the uncertainty persists. Without a confirmed arrival time, the franchise cannot seek a replacement, although they declined to comment on the situation.
Hasaranga is expected to travel abroad, likely to Dubai, for a checkup on March 31 for his nagging left ankle issue. His manager stated that a decision on joining the IPL team will be made based on expert advice. “He wants to enjoy the IPL. We are in touch with the franchise,” the manager assured.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) faced scrutiny when they included Hasaranga in the Test squad for the away series in Bangladesh, despite his retirement from the format a year ago. This timing raised questions as ICC sanctions against him were imminent.
Despite the ban, Hasaranga’s Test selection ensures he won’t miss any T20 World Cup games, where he will lead Sri Lanka. SLC denied any attempt to circumvent the ban through Test selection.
There’s still curiosity surrounding the issue. Hasaranga was picked for the Test series starting on March 22, the same day the IPL began. Did SLC know about his injury when selecting him for the Test squad? Sanath Jayasuriya, the SLC consultant, refrained from commenting without board permission. Neither SLC officials nor Hasaranga responded to inquiries.