Watch: Wanindu Hasaranga reveals inspiration behind his unique celebration

Wanindu Hasaranga starred in Bangalore’s win against Kolkata in a low-scoring thriller on March 30. Hasaranga took four wickets for 20 runs in his four-over spell to break the back of the Kolkata batting line-up. He took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer (13), Sunil Narine (12), Sheldon Jackson (0), and Tim Southee (1). This performance earned him Player of the Match as the Faf du Plessis-led side beat the Men In Purple and Gold in the low-scoring encounter by three wickets.

During the game, Sri Lanka all-rounder was seen celebrating in a unique way. He imitated Brazilian footballer’s celebration Neymar Jr. This celebration attracted a lot of attention from the fans and netizens. After the game, the leg-spinner was asked about his celebration style to which the spinner said he admires Neymar Jr. a lot.

“I admire Neymar a lot, and that is his celebration which I do”, said the Sri Lanka cricketer. The Galle-born player added that he doesn’t take too much pressure during the game.

Talking about the game, it was treat to watch for the fans. Apart from Hasaranga’s efforts, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Harshal Patel took one, three, and two wickets respectively. This meant that the two-time winners were restricted to 128 all-out in 18.5 overs. In reply, Kolkata opening bowlers, Umesh Yadav and Tim Southee fought back with early breakthroughs.

Yadav took the wickets of Anuj Rawat (0) and Virat Kohli (12) while Southee took the wicket of Faf du Plessis (5). The useful innings from the likes of David Willey (18), Shahbaz Ahmed (27), and Sherfane Rutherford (28) helped Bangalore stabilize the innings. However, late wickets meant that the Men in Red and Black were tottering at 111/7. However, Dinesh Karthik (14*) and Harshal Patel (10*) ensured the team got over the line.