The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season is in full swing, and all eyes are on the dynamic Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga as he dons the Rajasthan Royals (RR) jersey. Known for his exceptional leg-spin bowling and handy lower-order batting, Hasaranga has already made a mark in the IPL with his match-winning performances. As of March 27, 2025, with the IPL season underway, let’s dive into Hasaranga’s journey, his role in RR, and what fans can expect from him in this exciting tournament.
From Galle to Global Stardom: Hasaranga’s Journey
Wanindu Hasaranga, born on July 29, 1997, in Galle, Sri Lanka, is a cricketing prodigy who has risen through the ranks with sheer talent and determination. Initially a pacer in his school days at Richmond College, Hasaranga transitioned to leg-spin under the guidance of coach Lanka de Silva—a decision that transformed his career. His early promise was evident at the 2016 U-19 World Cup, where he showcased his potential as a spinner.
Hasaranga’s international career took off with a bang in 2017 when he made his ODI debut against Zimbabwe, claiming a hat-trick in his very first match. This feat made him the youngest bowler to take a hat-trick on ODI debut and the first leg-spinner to achieve this in ODI history. His T20I debut followed in 2019 against New Zealand, and by 2021, he was a global sensation, leading the wicket-takers at the T20 World Cup with 16 scalps and earning a spot in the ICC Men’s T20I Team of the Year for 2021 and 2022.
Hasaranga’s IPL Journey: A Proven Match-Winner
Hasaranga entered the IPL in 2021 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), where he quickly made an impact. Over three seasons with RCB (2021-2023), he played 26 matches, taking 35 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.54. His standout performance came in 2022 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, where he claimed 5/18, dismissing key batters like Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran. This performance earned him the Man of the Match award and showcased his ability to dominate on batting-friendly pitches.
In the IPL 2024 auction, SRH picked him up for INR 1.5 crore, but a chronic heel injury in his left foot forced him to miss the entire season. He was replaced by young Sri Lankan spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, and SRH released him ahead of the 2025 auction. Rajasthan Royals seized the opportunity, acquiring Hasaranga for INR 5.25 crore at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction in Jeddah, recognizing his value as a game-changer.
Hasaranga’s Role in Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2025
Rajasthan Royals, led by Riyan Parag in IPL 2025, have a balanced squad with a mix of experienced players like Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Jofra Archer, alongside emerging talents like Dhruv Jurel and Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Hasaranga’s inclusion strengthens RR’s spin department, complementing the likes of Maheesh Theekshana and providing a wicket-taking option in the middle overs.
A recent post on X highlighted Hasaranga’s effectiveness in the IPL, noting that he strikes every 18.3 balls in the middle overs—a stat that underscores his ability to break partnerships and shift momentum. However, RR’s decision to send him at No. 5 in their match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26, 2025, drew criticism from fans on social media, who felt his batting position didn’t maximize his potential. Despite this, Hasaranga’s primary role remains as a bowler, where his variations and ability to deceive batters make him a constant threat.
Hasaranga’s all-round capabilities add depth to RR’s lineup. While his IPL batting record stands at 72 runs in 26 matches (average: 7.20, highest: 18), his power-hitting skills can provide quick runs in the lower order, as seen in his 12 off 8 balls against Mumbai Indians in his last IPL match in 2023. With RR looking to improve their performance after a loss to SRH in their opener, Hasaranga’s experience and versatility could be key in turning their fortunes around.
What to Expect from Hasaranga in IPL 2025
As of March 27, 2025, the IPL 2025 season is heating up, with Kolkata Knight Riders as the defending champions after their 2024 triumph over SRH. RR, however, are determined to go one step further this year after reaching the playoffs in previous seasons. Hasaranga’s track record in T20 cricket—over 100 T20I wickets for Sri Lanka, including a T20 World Cup hat-trick—makes him a vital cog in RR’s campaign.
His ability to perform on Indian pitches, as demonstrated by his 5/18 at Wankhede, suggests he can exploit the spin-friendly conditions at venues like Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium, RR’s home ground. Additionally, his experience in high-pressure situations, such as leading Sri Lanka in the 2024 T20 World Cup, equips him to handle the intensity of the IPL.
However, Hasaranga’s injury history remains a concern. His heel pain sidelined him in 2024, and while he has recovered, RR will need to manage his workload carefully, especially with the tournament running from March 22 to May 25, 2025, across 74 matches. Posts on X indicate that Hasaranga likely missed RR’s opener against SRH on March 23 due to strategic team balance and the IPL’s overseas player limit of four per match, with RR opting for players like Trent Boult, Jofra Archer, and Shimron Hetmyer. This decision reflects the team’s depth but also highlights the challenge of fitting Hasaranga into the playing XI consistently.
Hasaranga’s Legacy and Impact
Beyond his on-field contributions, Hasaranga is a trailblazer for Sri Lankan cricket. He is the country’s leading T20I wicket-taker and the only Sri Lankan to claim a T20 World Cup hat-trick. His journey from a pacer to a world-class leg-spinner is a testament to his adaptability and work ethic. Off the field, Hasaranga’s humility and leadership—he captained Sri Lanka in the 2024 T20 World Cup—have made him a fan favorite.
For IPL 2025, Hasaranga’s presence in the RR squad adds a layer of excitement. Whether he’s bamboozling batters with his googlies or chipping in with quick runs, he has the potential to be an X-factor for Rajasthan Royals. As the tournament progresses, fans will be eager to see if Hasaranga can replicate his 2022 heroics and help RR lift their second IPL title.
What are your expectations for Wanindu Hasaranga in IPL 2025? Can he lead RR’s spin attack to glory? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
