Legendary Sri Lankan batsman Mahela Jayawardene is impressed by the rise of spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga in world cricket and feels he is moving like Lasith Malinga. Hasaranga, who played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, grabbed the attention of people by taking the highest 16 wickets in the T20 World Cup played in the United Arab Emirates last year. After this, he played an important role in the victory of Asia Cup with bat and ball. With this, he reached number four in the ranking of all-rounders.
Jayawardene said in the ICC review, “The way he emerged is very much like Lasith (Malinga). He is also from South Sri Lanka and his behavior is also like that of Malinga.He said, “Hasranga’s progress in cricket is also very similar to that of Lasith Malinga. Most importantly, when he comes on the field, he becomes as competitive as Malinga. I really like this thing about him.”
Hasranga took nine wickets and scored 66 runs in the Asia Cup and was adjudged the player of the tournament.He also played a key role in the final (3 for 36 runs and 27 runs) against Pakistan. Jayawardene said, “In the last 12 months he has shown how mature he is not only as a bowler but also as a batsman. He really made a significant contribution in difficult situations.
