Who would have thought that after scoring 356 runs against Pakistan, the Indian top order would fall down like a pack of cards against Sri Lanka in the ongoing Super Four clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo? After a brilliant 80-run opening stand, all the Indian batters were dismissed by the Sri Lankan spinners. And it was youngster Dunith Wellalage who picked up his maiden five-wicket haul in the first inning.
He dismissed five of the top six Indian batters and ended up with a figure of 5/40 in 10 overs. Wellalage got a chance in the Sri Lankan squad after an injury to Wanindu Hasaranga, and he grabbed this opportunity with both hands. He is also a brilliant hitter down the order and can bat pretty well. With his performance, it is for sure that some of the IPL franchises will take a note of his performance and might look to sign him in the IPL 2024.
1. Mumbai Indians
The five-time champion Mumbai Indians have struggled to find a good spinner in the last couple of seasons. They signed veteran Piyush Chawla last season. But they are in search of a spinner who can bat as well, just like Krunal Pandya did for them over the years. Wellalage is one such player who can do well with both the bat and the ball and can provide what MI is looking for.
2. Royal Challengers Bangalore
Since Royal Challengers Bangalore released Yuzi Chahal, they have been in search of a good spinner. Though they signed Wanindu Hasaranga for a price of INR 10 crore and he did a pretty good job, Hasaranga has underperformed when it comes to batting for the RCB. That can be rectified if RCB can target Wellalage in the IPL in 2024. Because he is a brilliant finisher with the bat as well, he can bat No. 6 or 7, which is the weak link for Bangalore.
3. Sunrisers Hyderabad
Sunrisers Hyderabad have finished the last two seasons at the bottom of the table. They are struggling with their team’s combination and have not done well. They are looking for someone who can give them an option with both the bat and the ball. Wellalage can fill that role for them. SRH has Mayank Markande and Washinton Sundar, and Wellalage can be a great addition to them.
