In modern cricket, very few players have the ability to change a match with both bat and ball. For Sri Lanka, that role is perfectly embodied by Wanindu Hasaranga, their star all-rounder who has become a household name not just in his country but across global cricket.
During the Asia Cup 2025 clash between Sri Lanka and Hong Kong, it was Hasaranga who provided the finishing touches with a quickfire 20 off 9 balls*. While Pathum Nissanka had anchored the innings, Hasaranga’s late cameo ensured Sri Lanka crossed the finish line without drama.
This article explores Hasaranga’s journey — from his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most sought-after cricketers in T20 leagues worldwide. We’ll also dive into his playing style, career highlights, earnings, net worth, and what makes him such a crucial player for Sri Lanka.
Performance vs Hong Kong (Asia Cup 2025)
In the chase against Hong Kong, Sri Lanka needed someone to close the game quickly after a few nervous overs. Wanindu Hasaranga did just that.
- Runs: 20*
- Balls Faced: 9
- Boundaries: 2 fours, 1 six
- Strike Rate: 222+
Hasaranga’s cameo showed his trademark fearlessness. Coming in when Sri Lanka needed acceleration, he wasted no time in going after the bowlers. His ability to finish games under pressure once again reminded fans of his value to the team.
Early Life and Background
- Full name: Pinnaduwage Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva
- Born: 29 July 1997, Galle, Sri Lanka
- Role: All-rounder (leg-spin bowler & middle-order batter)
Growing up in Galle, a city that has produced cricketing talents like Pathum Nissanka and Dinesh Chandimal, Hasaranga was initially more interested in bowling fast. But coaches soon realized his wrist-spin had a natural flair, and he was encouraged to develop leg-spin seriously.
By his teenage years, he was already known as a prodigious spinner in school cricket. His batting also developed strongly, making him a complete package.
International Debut and Breakthrough
- ODI debut: 2 July 2017 vs Zimbabwe
- T20I debut: 1 September 2019 vs New Zealand
- Test debut: December 2020 vs South Africa
On his ODI debut against Zimbabwe, Hasaranga created history by becoming the youngest bowler to take a hat-trick on debut in ODI cricket. This instantly put him on the world map.
Over the years, he transformed into Sri Lanka’s premier T20 spinner and a handy lower-order hitter. His performances in ICC tournaments and franchise leagues gave him a global fanbase.
Career Highlights
- Hat-trick on ODI debut (2017 vs Zimbabwe).
- Leading wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup 2021.
- Consistent wicket-taker in IPL, BBL, CPL, and LPL.
- Scored crucial cameos for Sri Lanka in Asia Cup and World Cup tournaments.
- Known as one of the best attacking leg-spinners in modern cricket.
Playing Style
Wanindu Hasaranga is often compared to Rashid Khan because of his impact as a spinner who can also bat.
- Bowling: Aggressive leg-spinner, bowls at a quick pace, loves attacking batsmen. His googly is especially hard to pick.
- Batting: Aggressive middle-order hitter, capable of scoring quick 20-30 runs that often prove match-winning.
- Fielding: Agile and athletic, often saves crucial runs in the outfield.
His fearlessness makes him the perfect T20 package.
Franchise Cricket Superstar
Hasaranga is one of the most in-demand players in T20 leagues worldwide:
- IPL: Played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), where he became one of their top bowlers.
- BBL: Represented Melbourne Stars.
- CPL & PSL: Regular franchise player.
- Lanka Premier League (LPL): Consistently one of the best performers.
Franchise cricket not only polished his skills but also boosted his earnings.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2025, Wanindu Hasaranga’s net worth is estimated at $6–7 million.
Income sources:
- Sri Lanka Cricket central contract.
- IPL contracts – signed by RCB for $1.4 million in 2022.
- Other T20 leagues worldwide.
- Endorsements & sponsorships (sportswear, cricket gear brands).
- Match fees & ICC tournament bonuses.
He is one of the highest-paid Sri Lankan cricketers in history thanks to franchise cricket.
Life Beyond Cricket
- Hasaranga enjoys cars and owns a collection of luxury vehicles.
- Loves music and often posts about it on social media.
- Very close to his family and brother Chaturanga de Silva, who is also a cricketer.
- Involved in community programs and helps promote cricket in schools.
Hasaranga’s Importance to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has always relied on world-class all-rounders — from Sanath Jayasuriya to Angelo Mathews. In this generation, Wanindu Hasaranga carries that mantle.
His ability to:
- Pick wickets in the middle overs.
- Score quick runs under pressure.
- Add value as a leader on the field.
… makes him one of Sri Lanka’s most indispensable players.
Future Potential
At 28, Hasaranga is already at the peak of his powers. In the next 5 years, he could:
- Become one of the highest wicket-takers in T20 internationals.
- Win multiple franchise league titles.
- Lead Sri Lanka’s resurgence in world cricket.
- Even take up a future leadership role in the national team.
Conclusion
Wanindu Hasaranga is not just a cricketer; he is an entertainer, a match-winner, and an inspiration. His quick 20 off 9 balls vs Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2025* may look small in numbers, but in context, it was priceless. It showed his fearless nature and ability to close games.
From being a fast-bowling kid in Galle to becoming one of the world’s top T20 all-rounders, Hasaranga’s journey is remarkable. His story continues to inspire young cricketers in Sri Lanka and beyond.
FAQs About Wanindu Hasaranga
Q1: What is Wanindu Hasaranga’s highest score in international cricket?
A: His highest ODI score is 80+, while in T20Is he has scored match-winning 40s.
Q2: What is his best bowling figure?
A: 4/9 in T20 internationals.
Q3: Which IPL team has he played for?
A: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Q4: How much is Wanindu Hasaranga’s net worth?
A: Estimated at $6–7 million as of 2025.
Q5: Did Hasaranga take a hat-trick on debut?
A: Yes, against Zimbabwe in ODIs in 2017.
Q6: What is his role in the team?
A: All-rounder – leg-spin bowler and middle-order batter.
Q7: Is he married?
A: As of 2025, he has not publicly confirmed his marital status.
Q8: How old is Wanindu Hasaranga?
A: He is 28 years old.
Q9: Has he played Test cricket?
A: Yes, he made his Test debut in 2020.
Q10: What is his most famous performance?
A: Leading wicket-taker in T20 World Cup 2021.
Q11: Which domestic club does he play for?
A: He represents Colombo-based clubs in Sri Lanka domestic cricket.
Q12: Who is his cricket idol?
A: He has admired Shane Warne and Rashid Khan.
Q13: What makes Hasaranga special?
A: His rare ability to dominate with both bat and ball.
Q14: Which T20 leagues has he played in?
A: IPL, BBL, CPL, PSL, LPL, and more.
Q15: Does he bowl googlies?
A: Yes, his googly is one of his deadliest weapons.
Q16: Where was he born?
A: In Galle, Sri Lanka.
Q17: How did he start his cricketing career?
A: Initially as a fast bowler before switching to leg-spin.
Q18: Is he the most expensive Sri Lankan IPL player?
A: Yes, he became one of the highest-paid Sri Lankan cricketers in IPL history.
Q19: Does he have siblings in cricket?
A: Yes, his brother Chaturanga de Silva is also a cricketer.
Q20: What is his future role in Sri Lankan cricket?
A: Likely to remain the team’s key all-rounder and a potential leader.