Hasaranga drafted for The Hundred

All-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga was drafted by the Manchester Originals for the second season of The Hundred yesterday.

The right-arm spinner was the Originals’ third pick, in the 100,000 sterling pound category – the second most lucrative in the draft.

However, his participation in the second season of the 100 balls per innings tournament, organised by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)  which is scheduled from August 3 to September 3, could be doubtful as Sri Lanka are slated to play a Test and ODI series at home against Pakistan in July and August.

The drafting of Hasaranga underlines the burgeoning reputation the all-rounder has gained as one of the best in his craft, having been picked up for 10.75 crore (Indian Rupees) for the ongoing Indian Premier League.

He reached the top of the ICC’s ranking for T20I bowlers earlier this year, currently sitting sixth on that list, and tenth in the ranking for all-rounders.
Meanwhile, the London Spirit signed West Indies batsman Kieron Pollard as their number one pick, while all-rounder Andre Russell joined the Originals and Dwayne Bravo went to Northern Superchargers.

Pollard, who has played over 100 Twenty20 internationals, was recruited by the London side along with England spinner Liam Dawson and Australian fast bowler Riley Meredith. Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was already in their squad.

“I’m really pleased I’ll get to play at Lord’s. I have some good memories of playing there, and have done well in finals for Hampshire there,” Dawson said.
“Glenn Maxwell and Pollard are legends of the game, so I think we’ve got a fantastic team together.”

Welsh fire bolstered their squad by bringing in Australia spinner Adam Zampa, South African big-hitter David Miller, and Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah as their overseas players.
West Indian Bravo will be joined at the Northern Superchargers by Pakistan paceman Wahab Riaz.

The Hundred was launched to attract a younger audience to the game in England with eight city-based teams competing over five weeks.
Southern Brave won the inaugural competition last year, comfortably beating Birmingham Phoenix in the men’s final at Lord’s after the Oval Invincibles won the women’s crown. 
(With agency inputs)