Star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga said he was “very happy” with his performance but stressed that the team’s response under pressure was the most pleasing aspect following the 14-run win over Pakistan in the third and final T20 International at Dambulla on Sunday, which enabled the hosts to level the three-match series 1-1.
Hasaranga, who claimed 4 for 35 in the rain-affected encounter, was named both Man of the Match and Man of the Series after playing a decisive role with the ball at a crucial stage of the game.
“I’m very happy about my performance, but more importantly it came in a match we had to win,” Hasaranga said at the post-match press conference. “If I can get going, every team member can play their own roles, and that’s what happened today.”
He revealed that his confidence stemmed from the work put in during training sessions leading up to the match. “Even in practices, I was hitting it well,” he said. “So today was a good day to showcase it, both with the bat and the ball.”
Reflecting on the bowling effort in a shortened game, Hasaranga underlined the importance of sticking to clear plans. “In a rain-affected match, you don’t get a second chance,” he said. “We spoke about being disciplined and executing our plans, and the bowlers did that really well.”
He also credited the fielding unit for maintaining pressure as Pakistan threatened during the chase. “Everyone stayed switched on. That energy in the field made a big difference,” he noted.
While pleased with the series-levelling result, Hasaranga admitted Sri Lanka still have areas to improve. “Consistency is something we need to work on,” he said. “But this win shows what we are capable of when we play to our plans.”
Hasaranga said the performance would give the team confidence as they look ahead to upcoming international commitments.
