Aoba Tanaka 
Sri Lankan cricket sensation Wanindu Hasaranga much-anticipated return to Test cricket has been abruptly halted by an ICC sanction, rendering him ineligible to participate in the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh.
Less than a day after Sri Lanka’s announcement of Hasaranga inclusion in the Test squad, the International Cricket Council (ICC) issued a penalty against the all-rounder for breaching article 2.8 of the player’s code of conduct. This violation pertained to Hasaranga’s dissent against the umpire’s decision during the third and final ODI against Bangladesh.
According to an ICC press release, the incident occurred during the 37th over of the match, where Hasaranga displayed dissent by snatching his cap from one of the umpires and openly ridiculing the umpiring decisions. Consequently, Hasaranga incurred a fine equivalent to 50% of his match fees and received three demerit points, pushing his total demerits to eight.
As per ICC regulations, accumulation of eight demerit points mandates a player’s suspension from international cricket, resulting in missing either two Tests, four ODIs, or four T20Is, whichever comes first. In Hasaranga’s case, this suspension comes at a crucial juncture, as it coincides with Sri Lanka’s Test series against Bangladesh.
This isn’t the first time Hasaranga has faced disciplinary action from the ICC. In February, he was penalized for similar dissent towards umpiring decisions, highlighting a recurring issue that has now affected his availability for international fixtures.
The absence of Hasaranga from Sri Lanka’s Test squad presents a significant setback for the team’s spin attack plans, which were anticipated to revolve around his prowess alongside Prabath Jayasuriya, with Ramesh Mendis offering support. However, with Hasaranga sidelined, Sri Lanka will have to recalibrate their strategy, likely bringing in Kamindu Mendis, who has limited Test experience, and uncapped talent Nishan Peiris into the fold.
As the cricketing world awaits the commencement of the Test series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Hasaranga’s suspension serves as a reminder of the importance of discipline and respect for the game’s officials, underscoring the need for players to uphold the spirit of cricket both on and off the field.
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