Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga made a shocking return to worldwide cricket with a career-best 7-19 to information his facet to an eight-wicket win in opposition to Zimbabwe and clinch a 2-0 ODI sequence win Thursday in Colombo.
In a recreation minimize to 27 overs a facet by two downpours, Sri Lanka’s star bowler, in his first match after a six-month hamstring harm absence, skittled the vacationers for simply 96.
“It’s been a protracted break,” he informed reporters afterwards. “It’s exhausting work to return again to the facet and (I’m) more than happy with the hassle.”
Sri Lanka knocked off the runs inside 17 overs with Kusal Mendis making the lion’s share with an unbeaten 66 from 51 balls.
Zimbabwe had obtained off to a very good begin reaching 43 for no loss however the introduction of Hasaranga proved disastrous for the guests.
Hasaranga’s googly had three wickets by the top of his second over with Zimbabwe slumping to 47-3, finally shedding 4 batters trapped leg earlier than wicket.
“The blokes confirmed plenty of struggle within the sequence,” mentioned Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine.
“(It) Didn’t go properly at this time, though we began off properly earlier than the rain break,” he added.
“Our choices in opposition to spin have been restricted. That’s one thing we are going to take out of this sequence.”
Hasaranga’s fourth five-wicket haul is a brand new report for R. Premadasa Stadium, eclipsing Angelo Mathews’ 6-20 in opposition to India in 2009.
It was additionally the second finest ODI figures by a Sri Lankan bowler behind 8-19 by Chaminda Vaas, additionally in opposition to Zimbabwe in 2001.
Hasaranga, who will captain Sri Lanka within the T20 sequence to observe, obtained a standing ovation as he walked off the sector.
“I’m not a data man however (it’s) nice to have… and it helps the workforce win,” Hasaranga mentioned.
“It is a good morale enhance for us forward of a busy season.”
Opener Joylord Gumbie top-scored for the guests with 29.
Skipper Mendis made a 73-run stand for the second wicket alongside debutant Shevon Daniel (12) because the hosts cruised to a cushty win with 62 deliveries to spare.
“It’s my first sequence win and it feels good,” Mendis mentioned.
“I’ve been getting numerous help from my seniors. Hopefully we will construct from right here.”
The primary match within the sequence was washed out because of rain whereas the hosts secured a hard-fought two-wicket win within the second.
A 3-match T20 sequence begins on Sunday with Colombo once more internet hosting all video games.
Supply: namibian
