Dushan Hemantha Backed to ‘Bamboozle’ Australia with Variations, Says R Sridhar
Sri Lanka’s team management has thrown its weight behind young legspinner Dushan Hemantha, expressing confidence that his variations could trouble Australia in their high-stakes World Cup clash.
Hemantha steps into the sizeable shoes of Wanindu Hasaranga, one of the world’s premier legspinners. Replacing a proven match-winner is no small task, but Sri Lanka’s fielding coach R Sridhar believes the youngster has shown commendable composure under pressure.
“To fill Hasaranga’s shoes is not going to be easy for Dushan Hemantha, but having said that, I think he has responded excellently well,” Sridhar said.
A Tough Start, But Faith Intact
Hemantha’s first outing at the World Cup was far from ideal. He conceded 45 runs in his four overs against Oman, picking up just one wicket in a match where Oman were bowled out for 120. Despite the expensive spell, the team management has attributed the performance to understandable nerves on the global stage.
“I would be lying if I say that we are all absolutely spot on. Every one of us will be nervous going to a World Cup, and so was Dushan Hemantha. It’s human,” Sridhar explained. “I think he’s responded brilliantly and he’s a terrific young bowler.”
According to Sridhar, Hemantha’s biggest asset heading into the contest against Australia is the element of surprise.
“The advantage for him is not many have seen him or played him in the international circuit. He’s got some excellent variations up his sleeves which you may get to see tomorrow. He may bamboozle a few of the Aussie batters with his variations,” Sridhar said.
More Than Just a Bowler
Beyond his bowling, Hemantha offers value in the field and with the bat. Sridhar described him as a “gun” fielder capable of making an impact in the outfield and highlighted his ability to strike the ball cleanly down the order.
“He can bat, he can hit a long ball. So he is a very exciting addition to the squad,” he added.
However, Sridhar was clear that while fielding is crucial, it is rarely the sole criterion for selection.
“No player is ever selected only for his fielding in the XI, not even Jonty Rhodes,” he remarked, underscoring that fielding remains a complementary skill rather than a primary one.
Renewed Focus on Fielding Culture
Sri Lanka’s campaign has also been shaped by a renewed emphasis on fielding standards. Sridhar, appointed through the end of the World Cup, has focused on instilling a “team-first” mentality and connecting players to the larger purpose of representing their country.
“Got them really connected to the bigger picture. Some inspiration as to why they wear this jersey and how people look up to them. That really worked. There’s some good athletes in the team, so that really helps too,” he said.
As Sri Lanka prepare for a crucial encounter with Australia, much of the spotlight will fall on Hemantha. While comparisons with Hasaranga are inevitable, the young legspinner now has an opportunity to carve out his own mark on the tournament stage.