In the recently concluded Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023, Sri Lanka showcased their spin prowess and emerged as the dominant force. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, two exceptional spinners, topped the list of leading wicket-takers in the tournament. Sri Lanka’s unbeaten run in the qualifiers secured their spot in the prestigious event to be held in India later this year. Let’s delve into the performances of these outstanding spinners and explore the other notable wicket-takers at the Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023.
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Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) – 22 Wickets
Wanindu Hasaranga, known for his exceptional spin skills, proved to be the standout performer at the Cricket World Cup Qualifier. He continued his remarkable form from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cups in 2021 and 2022, where he also claimed the most wickets. Hasaranga set the tone for Sri Lanka’s campaign with an impressive streak, achieving a record-equalling five-wicket hauls in three consecutive ODIs, a feat previously accomplished by Waqar Younis. His consistent brilliance troubled opponents throughout the tournament, finishing with a total of 22 wickets at an impressive average of 12.9. Although he occasionally leaked runs, Hasaranga’s variations, including his potent googly, made him a formidable force.
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Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka) – 21 Wickets
Maheesh Theekshana, an off-spinner, made a significant impact as opposition batsmen sought to counter Wanindu Hasaranga. Theekshana’s performances were particularly impressive during the Super Six stage, where he displayed his skills by claiming three wickets against both Scotland and Netherlands. He continued his dominance in the final, securing four-wicket hauls against Zimbabwe, West Indies, and the Dutch. The 22-year-old’s exceptional bowling skills resulted in 21 wickets at an impressive average of 12.23. Additionally, Theekshana maintained an excellent economy rate of 4.02, the best among the leading bowlers, effectively restricting runs.
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Bas de Leede (Netherlands) – 15 Wickets
Bas de Leede, an all-rounder from the Netherlands, played a crucial role in his team’s successful campaign. In a do-or-die clash with Scotland, de Leede showcased his abilities by becoming the fifth player to take a five-wicket haul and score a century in the same ODI. This outstanding achievement marked a significant milestone for the emerging 23-year-old. Although he missed the return clash against Sri Lanka in the final due to other commitments, de Leede left his mark with three wickets against the strong Sri Lankan team. His performances against leading teams indicate the potential for further success in his career.
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Other Notable Wicket-Takers
Several other bowlers made their mark as well in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier:
Chris Greaves (Scotland), Richard Ngarava (Zimbabwe), and Bilal Khan (Oman) - all claimed 14 wickets during the tournament. Greaves, a leg-spinner, seized the opportunity with an impressive five-wicket haul against Oman and followed it up with four scalps against Sri Lanka. Ngarava, a left-arm bowler for Zimbabwe, consistently broke through crucial moments and restricted the opposition to a low economy rate of 4.73 runs per over. Bilal Khan, a veteran pacer from Oman, delivered a remarkable performance, taking three wickets against the Netherlands and a notable 5/55 against Scotland.
Brandon McMullen (Scotland) and Mark Adair (Ireland)
Both finished with 13 wickets in the tournament. McMullen, a powerful all-rounder, showcased his skills with two centuries and a five-wicket haul. Adair, a tall pacer, demonstrated his impact on leading teams with impressive figures of 4/46 against Sri Lanka in the group stage. Despite their teams' disappointing campaigns, both players proved their value and are expected to remain vital assets in the future.
Karan KC (Nepal) and Logan van Beek (Netherlands) -
Both claimed 12 wickets during the Cricket World Cup Qualifier. Karan KC, the pick of Nepal's bowlers, delivered notable performances with four-wicket hauls against the USA and Ireland. Van Beek, a seamer for the Netherlands, made an impact with five wickets against Sri Lanka and crucial contributions against Nepal, finishing with figures of 4/24.
The Cricket World Cup Qualifier witnessed the dominance of Sri Lanka’s spinners, with Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana leading the way. Their exceptional performances contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s undefeated campaign and secured their spot at the showpiece event in India. Alongside them, notable performances from Bas de Leede, Chris Greaves, Richard Ngarava, Bilal Khan, Brandon McMullen, Mark Adair, Karan KC, and Logan van Beek added depth to the tournament. These talented bowlers showcased their skills, making the Cricket World Cup Qualifier an exhilarating and memorable tournament.
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Information Source: ICCย
Sri Lanka's spin wizards helped their side to #CWC23 qualification with a brilliant display in the Qualifier ๐
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— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 11, 2023
