Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana delivered a remarkable performance in the second ODI against New Zealand at Seddon Park?, Hamilton, on Wednesday, January 8.

Immediate impact with the ball as replacement of Lahiru Kumara

Theekshana’s hat-trick, achieved across two overs, proved to be the highlight of a rain-affected game that was reduced to 37 overs per side. Replacing Lahiru Kumara, Theekshana made an immediate impact in the rain-shortened 37-over game. He initially broke a threatening 112-run stand by dismissing Mark Chapman in the 20th over. However, it was in the 35th and final overs of New Zealand’s innings that Theekshana truly turned the game. Theekshana’s hat-trick wasn’t just a display of skill but also tactical acumen. After a costly previous over, he adjusted his pace and trajectory masterfully. The ??first ball of his seventh over conceded a boundary, but he quickly adapted, delivering precise carrom balls and off-breaks to limit the batters.

Maheesh Theekshana stunning ODI hat-trick against New Zealand

The sequence began in the 35th over when he dismissed Mitchell Santner, who tried to clear the boundary but was caught brilliantly by Chamindu Wickramasinghe at deep cover. On the very next ball, Nathan Smith attempted an aggressive stroke against a tossed-up carrom ball but edged it high over point, where Kamindu Mendis completed a diving catch after cove?ring significant ground.

With the hat-trick ball, Theekshana delivered another carrom ball to Matt Henry, who sliced it towards extra cover. Nuwanidu Fernando, fielding as a substitute, sprinted from wide long-off and slid to take a superb catch, sealing the hat-trick. Theekshana’s variations and clever use of the carrom ball in pressure moments not only dismantled New Zealand’s lower order but also highlighted his ability to outthink the batters. This exceptional feat was crucial in shifting the momentum of the match in Sri Lanka’s favour.

Here’s the video:

#MaheeshTheekshana's hat-trick restricts the #Blackcaps to 255/9. 💥#DidYouKnow: He is the 7️⃣th player from 🇱🇰 to take an #ODI hat-trick! 👏#SonySportsNetwork #NZvSL pic.twitter.com/TiWTn2BdIW

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) January 8, 2025

Also WATCH: Charith Asalanka’s stunning catch sends Rachin Ravindra packing ?in the 2nd ODI

Theekshana joins an elite club of Sri Lankan bowlers

With this feat, Theekshana became the seventh Sri Lankan to claim an ODI hat-trick, following legends like Lasith Malinga, Chaminda Vaas and Wanindu Hasaranga. Notably, Theekshana’s hat-trick is the first in ODIs since Wessly Madhevere achieved the milestone in 2023. Sri Lankan cricket ??has a rich history of hat-tricks, with Malinga recording three and Vaas two in the 50-over format. Theekshana’s achievement cements his place among these greats and adds to Sri Lanka’s reputati??on for producing world-class spinners.

New Zealand’s batting innings

After being put in to bat under lights, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 255/9 in their allotted 37 overs. The hosts were powered by half-centuries from Rachin Ravindra (79 off 63) and Mark Chapman (62 off 52). However, ??Theekshana and Hasaranga (2/39) kept the Kiwi batting in check during the middle and death overs. New Zealand had looked set for a total closer to 270 but were restricted thanks to Theekshana’s brilliance in the final overs. As Sri Lanka seeks to level the series, Theekshana’s performance serves as a reminder of their ability to produce match-turning moments, even against top-tier opponents.

Also READ: An?gelo Mathews calls out ICC over Sri Lanka’s limited Test m??atches schedule in 2025

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Sri Lanka sealed the three-match ODI series against the West Indies with a dominant performance in the second game, thanks to Maheesh Theekshana’s spin brilliance. The off-spinner was instrumental in breaking the Caribbean batting order, dismissing key players, including Alick Athanaze, in a displ??ay th?at captivated fans and secured a 2-0 lead for Sri Lanka.

Maheesh Theekshana’s magic delivery cleans up Alick Athanaze

In the third over of the West Indies innings, Theekshana delivered what could be described as the ball of the match. Facing Caribbean promising batter Athanaze, Theekshana unleashed a tossed-up delivery that drifted into the middle stump, forcing Athanaze to lean forward. The ball spun sharply away, beating the batter’s outside edge and clattering into the top of the off-stump. Athanaze could only watch as his stumps were shattered, departing for just 1 run off 3 balls. Theekshana’s joy was evident as he jumped and punched the air, celebrating a dream delivery.

Here is the video:

#ICYMI: Tricky Theekshana grabbed 3/26 and earned the Player of the Match award as Sri Lanka sealed the ODI series in clinical fashion. 💪#SLvWIonFanCode pic.twitter.com/vstSJGh952

— FanCode (@FanCode) October 24, 2024

Theekshana’s impact didn’t stop with Athanaze. The spinner continued to dominate, claiming two more vital wickets. He bowled Keacy Carty for 6 and later dismissed Hayden Walsh for just 1, ending with remarkable figures of 3 wickets for 25 runs in his 9 overs. His exceptional economy rate of 2.?80 played a pivotal role in stifling?? the Caribbean batting lineup.

For his match-winning efforts, Theekshana was rightfully named the Player of the Match?.

Also READ: All-round Sri Lanka seals the ODI series against Wes?t?? Indies

Sri Lanka clinches series 2-0

Despite Theekshana’s dominance, West Indies found some resistance in Sherfane Rutherford, who played a lon??e hand for his side. ??Rutherford top-scored with a well-compiled 80, which included seven fours and four towering sixes. However, his effort wasn’t enough as the West Indies were bowled out for a modest total of 189.

Alongside Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga also delivered a standout performance with the ball. The leg-spinner picked up 4 wickets in his 8-over spell, further weakening the West Indies’ chances of putting up a challenging score. Together, the Sri Lankan spinners ensured that West Indies could never build momentum.

In response, Sri Lanka made light work of the 190-run target, chasing it down with 5 wickets in hand under the DLS method. Captain Charith Asalanka led from the front, anchoring the chase with a composed knock of 62 not out. His knock, featuring 7 boundaries and a six, ensured Sri Lanka crossed the line comfor??tably.

With this comprehensive win, Sri Lanka wrapped up the series 2-0, having just one match left in the three-match series. The team’s clinical performance with both bat and ball underscored their dominance, while Theekshana’s brilliance provided a highlight that will be remembered for some time.

Also WATCH: Wanindu Hasaranga roars in celebration after removing Brandon King in the 1st ODI?? ?| SL vs WI

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In a gripping Eliminator match of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, Barbados Royals emerged victorious against the Trinbago Knight Riders by 9 wickets, successfully chasing down a revised target of 60 runs in just 4.2 overs using the DLS method. This win propelled the Royals into the next round of the tournament, demonstr??ating th??eir prowess and resilience under pressure.

The match was marked by a standout performance from David Miller, whose explosive unbeaten 50 runs off just 17 balls proved instrumental in securing the victory. In addition to that remarkable match, one of the standout moments was Maheesh Theekshana‘s stunning delivery that clean-bowled Sunil Narine.

Maheesh Theekshana’s brilliant wicket of Sunil Narine

In the first over of the innings, Theekshana executed a stunning delivery to dismiss Narine, showcasing his exceptional bowling skills. The delivery was pitched back of a length, enticing Narine to come down the wicket. As Narine advanced, Theekshana cleverly bowled a ball that spun away from him, creating a deceptive angle. Narine aimed to play the ball straight down the ground, trying to counter the spin. However, the ball curved sharply, eluding his bat and crashing into the stumps. This clever piece of bowling not only claimed Narine’s wicket but also set a tone for Theekshana’s performance in the match. The wicket marked Trinbago at 2/1, with Narine scoring just 2 runs off 3 balls.

Here’s the video:

He is the King of the Powerplay!👑
Maheesh Theekshana picks up his eighth powerplay wicket.#CPL24 #CPLPlayoffs #TKRvBR #CricketPlayedLouder #BiggestPartyInSport #Sky365 pic.twitter.com/NnNsBhhLrX

— CPL T20 (@CPL) October 1, 2024

Also READ: Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 – Broadcast, Live Streaming | When and where to watch in India, US, UK, Canada, South Africa & other countries

Trinbago Knight Riders’ innings: Nicholas Pooran’s masterclass amid early wickets

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, the Knight Riders faced a challenging start. They lost their first wicket early, with Narine dismissed for just 2 runs in the very first over. This was quickly followed by the fall of Jason Roy for 25 runs, leaving the team struggling at 54 for 2. Nevertheless, Nicholas Pooran steadied the innings with a brilliant performance, scoring an impressive 91 runs off 60 balls, striking 6 fours and 5 sixes in his innings. His aggressive approach and ability to find boundaries were pivotal in helping Trinbago set a competitive total of 168 runs in their allotted 19.1 overs. Kieron Pollard contributed with 17 runs, while Andre Russell remained not out on 20, ensuring a solid finish to the innings.

Barbados Royals�?chase: David Miller’s fireworks propel Royals to victory

Chasing a revised target of 60 runs in 5 overs due to rain interruptions, the Royals started cautiously but quickly gained momentum. The team faced an early setback when Quinton de Kock was dismissed for just 4 runs off 2 balls by Narine. Nonetheless, Miller took charge of the innings with his aggressive batting, scoring a blistering 50 not out off just 17 balls. His innings was characterized by powerful hitting, helping the Royals reach 64 runs for 1 wicket in just 4.2 overs. Rovman Powell, the captain, supported Miller well, finishing with 9 not out. This swift chase not only demonstrated the Royals’ batting strength but also highlighted their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Also W?ATCH: Dwayne Bravo breaks down in tears after playing his last CPL T20 match

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

During the 28th match of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, the Trinbago Knight Riders emerged victorious over the Barbados Royals by 30 runs. Despite a brilliant bowling performance from Maheesh Theekshana, who ?claimed three wickets, the Royals failed to chase down the ??target of 176 runs.

Maheesh Theekshana’s early magic stuns Jason Roy

The match kicked off with fireworks from Theekshana in just the first over of the Knight Riders’ innings. The Sri Lankan spinner delivered a slower ball that outfoxed opener Jason Roy, dismissing him for a duck. The slider from Theekshana cramped Roy for room as he attempted a pull shot, missing the ball entirely, which rattled his middle and leg stumps. This early breakthrough marked Theekshana’s seventh wicket in the powerplay this season, giving the Barbados Royals a strong start.

Here is the video:

Another wicket in the powerplay for Maheesh Theekshana☝️#CPL24 #TKRvBR #CricketPlayedLouder #BiggestPartyInSport #Sky365 pic.twitter.com/eDqUZVhBME

— CPL T20 (@CPL) September 28, 2024

Also WATCH: Dwayne Bravo breaks down in tears? after playing his la??st CPL T20 match

Kieron Pollard leads Trinbago Knight Riders to a comfortable win

However, despite Theekshana’s early impact, Trinbago Knight Riders managed to post a competitive total of 175/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Kieron Pollard, the Knight Riders’ skipper, led from the front with a blistering 42 off 27 balls, including four towering sixes. His crucial knock anchored the innings, ensuring his team had a solid foundation.

Alongside Theekshana, Afghanistan’s Naveen-ul-Haq was also a key performer with the ball for the Royals. He matched Theekshana’s efforts, taking three wickets in his four-over spell. Together, they restricted the Knight Riders’ middle order from cutting loose in the latter stages of the innings.

In response, Barbados Royals struggled to gain momentum in their chase. Alick Athanaze was the lone bright spot for the Royals, top-scoring with 44 runs from 33 balls. His effort kept the Royals�?hopes alive, but regular wickets hindered any chance of building a significant partnership. TKR bowlers were clinical in defending their total, with Akeal Hosein being the standout performer. Hosein’s superb four-over spell saw him take three wickets while conceding just 15 runs, effectively stifling the Royals’ batting lineup.

The Royals finished their innings at 145/9, falling 30 runs short of the target. The Knight Riders’ bowlers applied relentless pressure throughout the innings, leaving little room for the Royals to stage a comeback.

Win this win, TKR solidified their position in the points table, while the Royals were left to reflect on their missed opportunities as the CPL 20??24 season reaches nea??r to its knockout stages.

Also WATCH: Rovman Powell pulls off a sensational div??ing catch to dismiss Shimron Hetmyer in CPL 2024

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Sri Lanka‘s Maheesh Theekshana pulled off an exceptional catch at third man to dismiss Bangladesh‘s Shakib Al Hasan, during their Group D clash at the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas.

Bangladesh’s chase

Bangladesh were cruising in their run chase after Towhid Hridoy took on Wanindu Hasaranga, accelerating the score. Despite losing Hridoy and experiencing a few tight overs, Bangladesh maintained the upper hand with the experienced Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah at the crease. Positioned at 108/5 after 1?6 overs, Bangladesh seemed on track to chase down the target of 125.

The crucial moment

Matheesha Pathirana was brought in to bowl the 17th over. On his second delivery, Pathirana bowled a short ball aimed at Shakib, who attempted to steer it ove?r third man with a cut shot. Positioned at third man, Theekshana anticipated the trajectory perfectly. As the ball ballooned towards him, he sprinted in and made a diving catch, getting his fingers under the ball just in ??time. This catch sent Shakib back to the pavilion, having scored a scratchy eight runs off 14 deliveries.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2024: Mohammad A??mir narrates an untold sto?ry of receiving Virat Kohli’s bat ahead of the IND vs PAK game

The impact of Theekshana’s catch

Theekshana’s brilliant fielding effort injected new life into the Sri Lankan side. His catch sparked a series of wickets that put Bangladesh under significant pressure. Following Shakib’s dismissal, Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Nuwan Thushara, capitalized on the momentum and claimed quick wickets, causing a dramatic collapse in Bangladesh’s batting lineup.

Bangladesh’s narrow escape

Despite Sri Lanka’s valiant effort, Bangladesh managed to scrape through. Mahmudullah’s composed batting in the final overs guided Bangladesh to victory with an over and two wickets to spare. However, Sri Lanka’s spirited comeback, highlighted by Theekshana’s extraordinary catch, ensured that the match remained a thrilling contest until the end.

Also READ: Twitter erupts as Bangladesh registers a nail-biting win over Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 202??4

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Maheesh Theekshana, the prominent spinner for Sri Lanka, has raised concerns regarding the rigorous schedule imposed on his team during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, hosted across venues in the West Indies and the USA. Theekshana’s comments follow Sri Lanka’s defeat to South Africa by six wickets in their opening match of the global tournament, where the team faced time constraints in fulf??illing their post-match commitments.

Challenging logistics impact team preparation

According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, after their loss to South Africa, the Sri L??ankan squad faced a tight schedule, necessitating a swift departure from the stadium to their Brooklyn hotel. With limited time available, players had to swiftly pack t??heir belongings, check out, and make their way to the airport for a 6 pm flight bound for Dallas, where they were scheduled to face Bangladesh in their next match.

The team’s preparation for their opener was marred by delays, as their arrival in New York was significantly delayed due to a prolonged seven-hour wait at the Miami airport. Theekshana emphasized the adverse impact of extensive travel between venues, citing it as a major impediment for the team.

Maheesh Theekshana voices frustrations with travel demands

Expressing his discontent, Theekshana highlighted the unfairness of the situation, especially for a team required to traverse multiple locations for matches. He recounted the team’s experience at the Miami airport, where they endured an eight-hour wait before finally departing at 5 am instead of the originally scheduled 8 pm departure.

Also WATCH: Matheesha Pathirana floors Heinrich Klaas??en with a toe-crushing yorker in SL vs SA T20 World Cup 2024 game

Theekshana emphasized the challenges faced by Sri Lanka due to the demanding schedule, which has led to fatigue and disrupted training routines. The logistical demands have force??d the cancellation of training sessions, with players having to contend with early wake-up calls to commute to their respective match venues.

“So unfair for us, we have to leave every day [after the match] because we are playing [at] four different venues. It’s unfair. The flight we took from Florida, from Miami, we had to wait like eight hours in the airport to get the flight. And we came around. We were supposed to leave at 8 pm but we got the flight at 5 am. It’s really unfair for us, but it doesn’t matter when you play [on the field],” said Theekshana.

Disparity in scheduling fairness

Further exacerbating Sri Lanka’s grievances is the disparity in scheduling fairness, as highlighted by Theekshana. Teams stationed at single venues benefit from familiarity with the conditions and have the opportunity to engage in practice sessions, an advantage not enjoyed by Sri Lanka, who must adapt to varied conditions across multiple venues.

“Yeah, that’s why. Because even from the hotel, it’s one hour and 40 minutes. Even today [match day], we had to wake up around 5 am to come here,” Theekshana added.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2024 �?Keshav Maharaj dismisses Wanindu Hasaranga, Sadeera Sam??arawickrama in consecutive balls during SL vs SA clash

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 continues to deliver thrilling moments, and the ongoing Match 19 between the Netherlands and Sri Lanka certainly did not disappoint. While the Dutch side walked into the game with a historic victory over South Africa, the La?nkans came searching for their first win in the high-stakes tournament.

Netherlands’ satisfactory performance with the bat

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the Netherlands faced early adversity with the loss of Vikramjit Singh. Max O’Dowd contributed 16 runs, while Colin Ackermann added 29 runs from 31 balls. Skipper Scott Edwards w?as dismissed for 16, leaving the Dutch at a precarious 91/6.

However, a remarkable recovery ensued, primarily led by Sybrand Engelbrecht and Logan van Beek, who stitched togeth??er an impressive 130-run partnership for the 7th wicket. Engelbrecht emerged as the top scorer with 70 runs off 82 deliveries, while van Beek chipped in with 59 runs off 75 balls. The Dutch innings featured 33 extra?s, and they concluded their innings at 262 runs in 49.4 overs.

Kasun Rajitha displayed his bowling prowess by claiming four crucial wickets for just 50 runs in his nine overs. Similarly, Dilshan Madushanka made a significant impact, bagging four wickets while conceding 49 runs in his 9.4 overs. Mahesh Theekshana added to the wicket tally by dismissing Edwards, and the Netherlands innings was eventua??lly brought to an end with a?? run-out.

Also WATCH: World Cup 2023, NED vs SL – Kusal Perera takes a flying catch to get rid of Bas de Leede

Maheesh Theekshana’s mind-blowing delivery

During the 22nd over, Theekshana unleashed an extraordinary delivery that led to the downfall of Edwards. This right-arm spinner produced a delivery of exceptional quality, marked by its perfect length, positioned just outside the off stump. In an attempt to execute a powerful drive, Edwards unknowingly created a sizeable gap between his bat and the ball. The gap allowed the wh?ite leather to spin sharply and collide with the stumps, ultimately sending the batter back to the pavilion. It was a moment of sheer brilliance in the game.

Also READ: World Cup 2023 – Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara gives huge remarks on Virat Kohli’s century against Bangladesh

Here is the video:

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In a surprising turn of events, Sri Lanka’s promising young spinner, Maheesh Theekshana, was notably absent from today’s highly anticipated ODI World Cup 2023 clash against South Africa. This unexpected development has left fans and cricket pundits wondering about the reasons behind his absence from the pla??ying XI.

Maheesh Theekshana has been one of Sri Lanka’s rising stars in the world of cricket. His unique spin variations and impressive performances have garnered significant attention, making him a valuable asset to the Sri Lankan team.

Injury Concern:

The primary reason behind Theekshana’s absence from today’s match is his hamstring injury. It is reported that the mystery spinner has failed to recover from the injury which he sustained during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2023.

Team Management’s Decision:

Sri Lanka’s team management, in consultation with the medical staff, made the decision to rest Theekshana for the game against South Africa. This decision underscores the team’s commitment to the player’s long-term fitness and well-being. Sri Lanka would rather have their young star fully fit for future matches in the tournament than risk aggravating his injury in the early stages.

Also READ: Cricket icons applaud India’s remarkable ach?ievement of 100+ medal tally at the As?ian Games 2023

Replacement in Sri Lanka’s Playing XI:

To fill the void left by Theekshana, Sri Lanka made a tactical adjustment in their playing XI. They included left-arm seamer Dilshan Madushanka to maintain the balance of bowlers in the team. The decision aimed to ensure that Sri Lanka fields a competitive side despite Theekshana’s absence.

Sri Lanka XI: Kusal Perera, ??Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Kasun Rajitha

As  Theekshana receives the necessary medical attention and rehabilitation, Sri Lanka cricket fans will eagerly await his return to the playing XI. His unique spin bowling promises to be a key asset for the Islanders in their quest f??or success in the ODI World Cup 2023.

Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – German football star Thomas Muller wishes Rohit Sharma and Team India good luck

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The cricketing world is abuzz with anticipation as Sri Lanka gears up to face off against India in the highly awaited Asia Cup 2023 final showdown. The match is scheduled at the ic??onic R. Premadasa ??Stadium in Colombo on Sunday.

Led by Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka’s team showcased their mettle by securing a spot in the finals after a thrilling Super 4 match against Pakistan, where they emerged victorious by two wickets.

However, the Sri Lankan cricket team has been dealt a significant blow ahead of their crucial clash in the Asia Cup 2023 final. Their star spinner, Maheesh Theekshana, who played a pivotal role with the ball throughout their Asia Cup campaign, lead?ing the spin-charge, will sit out of the final encounter due to a hamstring in?jury.

His absenc??e is a setback for the Islanders, as he captured eight wickets in the f??ive games at an economy of 5.15.

Also READ: Washington Sundar set to join Team India for the Asia ??Cup 2023 final against Sri ?Lanka

Sahan Arachchige to replace Theekshana in the final

In response to the unfortunate injury to Theekshana, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has named Sahan Arachchige as the replacement player for the final game. The 27-year-old bowling all-rounder has previously donned the Sri Lankan jersey in two ODIs. During his brief international career, he demonstrated his capabilities by scoring 57 runs and contributing with one wicket. Though Arachchige may have a limited international track record, his inclusion in the squad signifies the team’s confidence in his abilities.

With the Asia Cup 2023 title on the line, the right arm spinner will be eager to make his mark and contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s quest for victory in the high-stakes encounter against India.

“Injury update  Maheesh Theekshana, who strained his right hamstring during the game against Pakistan, will not be available for the finals. A scan was done and confirmed the muscle injury. Sri Lanka Cricket Selectors have brought in Sahan Arachchige into the squad in place of Theekshana. Theekshana will return to the High Performance Center to commence rehabilitation work” tweeted Sri Lanka Cricket.

🚨 Injury update 🚨

Maheesh Theekshana, ??who strained his right hamstring during the game against Pakistan, will not be available for the finals.

A scan was done and confirmed the muscle injury.

Sri Lanka Cricket Selectors have brought in Sahan Arachchige into the squad in�?pic.twitter.com/7nSzGhHic2

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) September 16, 2023

Also READ: Cricket meets ??comedy: Memes galore from? India versus Bangladesh Super 4 clash in Asia Cup 2023

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.