‘He delivered the right performance at the right time’

The second leg of the Indian Premier League is all set to commence from September 19 in the UAE. Amidst these difficult and challenging times of the ongoing pandemic, cricket is played all over under strict bio-secure environments. Ahead of the start of this marquee event, there are possibilities of certain players missing the tournament on grounds of national duties, T20 World Cup preparations, rest or Covid-19 protocols. The former India batter Virender Sehwag feels that in this case, Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga will be on the radar of many franchises.

Over the years, the IPL has provided the players a platform to exude their fiefdom. This is the reason that many overseas players have always shown their keen interest in participating in the league. Considering the recent performances of Hasaranga in the India-Sri Lanka series, Sehwag praised the spinner and reckoned that many franchises will aim to rope him for the remainder of the IPL.

“He bowled brilliantly. And the two wickets he took in the middle – of Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad – broke India’s back. I think there was some news that Hasaranga is targeting a few IPL teams as a replacement player I mean he was hoping for something like that and he proved himself… it doesn’t get bigger than this. Those who would be thinking of picking him would be saying ‘we need to talk to him and get him as a replacement player. He delivered the right performance at the right time.” Sehwag told to Cricbuzz.

If there are discussions and someone needs a spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga could be the guy: Ashish Nehra

Wanindu Hasaranga turned many heads by displaying his flair in the recently concluded series. He scalped 10 wickets in five matches, which included match-winning figures of 4-9 in the decider T20I. Although there is no confirmation yet, as per reports RCB had shown interest in roping in the Sri Lanka player. Nehra thus pointed that if the franchises are putting their thinking hats for replacements of spinners, Hasaranga will be on their lists.

“Only time will tell which franchise needs a replacement. But if there are discussions, and someone needs a spinner – he (Hasaranga) could be the guy. If a player plays for a year and a half, he is considered a senior player in T20Is. He is the No. 2 ranked T20I bowler, although I do not believe much in rankings.” Nehra said.