Why is Wanindu Hasaranga Not Playing Today’s IPL 2023 Match Between KKR and RCB in Kolkata?

It is now twice in a row that Royal Challengers Bangalore‘s bowlers have justified captain Faf du Plessis‘ decision of bowling first after winning the toss in Indian Premier League 2023.

While they picked three top-order wickets within the powerplay against Mumbai Indians at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, they have dismissed three top-order batters right after the powerplay against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens tonight.

What makes RCB’s bowling performance all the more special is the fact that they are currently without three key first-choice overseas bowling options in all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and pacers Josh Hazlewood and Reece Topley.

Topley, who dislocated his right shoulder against Indians, played no further part in their season opener other than bowling a couple of overs. Sri Lanka’s Hasaranga and Australia‘s Hazlewood, meanwhile, are yet to join the franchise for the ongoing 16th season of the IPL.

Why is Wanindu Hasaranga Not Playing Today vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

Hasaranga, who had made his IPL debut for RCB in IPL 2021, is currently on national duty in New Zealand. Part of both the white-ball squads during an all-format tour, Hasaranga will be relieved from the same after the third T20I in Queenstown on Saturday.

The development means that Hasaranga could be in a race against time to be available for Royal Challengers’ third match of the season against Lucknow Super Giants in Bengaluru on April 10.

Speaking to host broadcaster Star Sports Network in Kolkata on Thursday, RCB head coach Sanjay Bangar remained unsure about the Sri Lankan’s participation against LSG despite landing in India on the day of the match primarily due to a long flight from New Zealand. That said, the 25-year old player will surely be available from their fourth match onward (on April 15 against Delhi Capitals).

Although Bangalore spinner Karn Sharma has surprised one and all upon his return to the tournament after almost 30 months, one expects Hasaranga to reclaim his position right away.

In 18 matches for the franchise across a couple of seasons, Hasaranga has picked 26 wickets at an average of 18.85, an economy rate of 7.75 and a strike rate of 14.54.