Declared unfit to play for Sri Lanka, Bhanuka hits 43 off 22 in IPL debut

28 March 2022 10:12 am - 8 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Dropped from the Sri Lankan team over fitness concerns, Bhanuka Rajapaksa delivered a statement of intent on his IPL 2022 debut on Sunday.

Coming into bat at No. 3 for Punjab Kings, the left-hander blasted a quick fire 43 to put his side in the driver’s seat, the Indian media Insidesports reported.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa silenced his critics in fine style on Sunday after he chipped in with a game changing knock at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

The Sri Lankan, who filled in for the absent Jonny Bairstow, scored a magnificent 43 off just 22 balls to add impetus to Punjab’s chase, who eventually sealed the deal with an over to spare.

The Sri Lankan left-hander took particular liking to fellow countryman Wanindu Hasaranga, who struggled to keep Rajapaksa in check. Bhanuka nullified the threat of Hasaranga’s mystery spin, further easing Punjab’s troubles.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa’s innings is a timely reminder of his skills and a statement of intent to the Sri Lankan Cricket Board, after he was dropped from the side on fitness grounds.

Rajapaksa had announced his retirement in protest and later retracted the same, working on his fitness before the IPL 2022 began.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa's 43(22) on IPL debut

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Comments - 8

N SENA Monday, 28 March 2022 10:32 AM

SLC WILL IGNORE THIS FEAT

Ruky Monday, 28 March 2022 10:39 AM

Let's not get carried away about a 43 runs... If he constantly does perform at the IPL then maybe. Still think the whole I'm retired and not anymore was just unwanted drama...

Serious Monday, 28 March 2022 02:54 PM

As per your standard, entire SL squad should not exist

Mithula Monday, 28 March 2022 03:11 PM

Ruky just shut up and get lost you idiot! Looks like you are a stooge of SLC selectors! Bhanuka’s knock was a pleasure to watch.

Cricketer Monday, 28 March 2022 11:53 AM

Hasaranga's performance at IPL yesterday was a contrast to that of Bhanuka.

M Perera Monday, 28 March 2022 02:30 PM

Yes! plays well for an India premier league. But if he is included in the national side will end up playing poorly. Same as most SL players past and present. Money gets into their heads and thats it. First of all be consistent in both the IPL and for tbe country before you make any statement.

Truth Monday, 28 March 2022 02:57 PM

No, it is because of the fitness insisted by our selectors he improved

Mithula Monday, 28 March 2022 03:08 PM

Bhanuka is the best batsman we have.That is why the selectors keep him out of our side because they want Srilanka to loose.

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Declared unfit to play for Sri Lanka, Bhanuka hits 43 off 22 in IPL debut

Comments - 8

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