Wanindu Hasaranga, a bowler and all-rounder for Sri Lanka, revealed on Tuesday that he was giving up Test cricket to focus on his limited-overs career.
The 26-year-old athlete has participated in just four Tests since making his Test debut against South Africa in December 2020.
Over two years ago, in April 2021, he played in his final Test at home against Bangladesh.
On Tuesday, Hasaranga told Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) of his intention to retire, and the organization's board approved it.
"Sri Lanka Men’s all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has informed Sri Lanka Cricket that he will retire from playing test cricket. Informing his decision, Hasaranga said the reason behind the move is to prolong his career as a limited-overs specialist," Sri Lanka Cricket said.
"We will accept his decision and are confident that Hasaranga will be a vital part of our white-ball program going forward,” said Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket.
Hasaranga has played for his country in 48 ODIs and 58 T20Is, taking 158 wickets overall and amassing 1,365 runs in the process.
Since making his ODI debut in 2017, Hasaranga has been Sri Lanka's white-ball specialist and is an essential component of their limited-overs lineup.
Hasaranga recently played a key role in Sri Lanka's qualification for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. With 22 wickets, the all-rounder finished as the competition's leading wicket-taker, helping them win the qualifier in Zimbabwe.
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