ABU DHABI: Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka said that Wanindu Hasaranga is a superstar in the making, after his team thrashed West Indies by 20 runs to end their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 on a high on Thursday.
Hasaranga scalped the important wickets of Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard while giving away only 19 runs in his entire spell.
Earlier, Charith Asalanka (68) and Pathum Nissanka's (51) inspired stand of 91 helped Sri Lanka soar to 189 for three to set a challenging target for the Windies.
Kieron Pollard's men were never equal to the task and the late heroics of Shimron Hetmyer (81 not out) were in vain as they ended up with 169 for eight from their 20 overs.
"A very good victory, the youngsters have worked hard to get this win and I'm happy for them. The bowlers were on the spot, as they have been for major parts of the tournament. I knew they had potential (on Nissanka and Asalanka). They have worked hard. They have a long career and a lot of cricket to come. They'll have a place in every team," Shanaka said in the post-match presentation.
"The team is moving in the right direction. The fans have been behind us throughout. We are thankful for them, everyone here and around the world. He is a gem (on Wanindu Hasaranga), a superstar in the making. It's still the start of his career. He needs to be protected as he's a real prospect in world cricket," he added.
Sri Lanka finished an encouraging tournament with 5 wins after 8 matches (including the qualifying stage). West Indies, meanwhile, will hope to end their campaign with a victory over Australia on Saturday, after their title defence ended on Thursday.
