IPL 2024: Sunrisers Hyderabad name Vijaykanth Viyaskanth as Wanindu Hasaranga's replacement

Sunrisers Hyderabad have signed Vijaykanth Viyaskanth as a replacement for the injured Wanindu Hasaranga for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.

Vijaykanth, a leg-spinner from Sri Lanka, has represented his country in a solitary T20 International so far. He joins the IPL at his base price of INR 50 lakhs.

It is worth mentioning that star Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who was initially a part of the former champion franchise, opted out of the cash-rich league. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the cricketer's national cricket board, had confirmed Hasaranga's unavailability for the remainder of the season. Following this, the Pat Cummins-led side have now welcomed Vijaykanth as the replacement for the leg spinner.

Also Check: Most Wickets in IPL 2024

Who is Vijayakanth Viyaskanth?

The latest entrant in the Hyderabad-based franchise is a like-for-like replacement for the senior national teammate. The 22-year-old made his international debut at the Hangzhou Asian Games as a frontline spinner. Notably, this is not the first time that the leggie will be a part of a domestic T20 franchise, as he has previously represented MI Emirates (ILT20), Chattogram Challengers (Bangladesh Premier League), and Jaffna Kings (Lanka Premier League) across different franchise leagues.

Also Read: LPL Schedule 2024 | LPL 2024 Time Table, Date, Venue, & Match Details

The young Lankan has played 33 20-over games so far, wherein the Jaffna-born has picked a total of 42 wickets at an average of 18.78 and a best of 3/14. His economy rate has also been impressive, as he has historically conceded at 6.76 rpo (runs per over) so far. The cricketer has also features in six first-class games, picking 16 wickets.

Considering the highly-saturated overseas line-up of SRH, Viyaskanth may not see himself get a chance in the playing combination. However, he may be introduced as a surprise package, given his ability to stem the flow of runs. It will be interesting to see how SRH use the services of their latest addition.