Cricketers of the Week – February 12th to February 18th

Asela Gunaratne

Gunaratne smashed a half-century to help the Lankans to victory

Sri Lanka have found a new batting star in Asela Gunaratne, who continued his fine form from the matches against South Africa, in the game with Australia. The 31-year old smacked a nerveless 37-ball 52 to help Sri Lanka chase down a target of 169 in the first T20I between the two teams at the MCG.

Extra Cover: Sri Lanka vs Australia 2017: 2nd T20, 5 Talking Points

Gunaratne, who hit seven fours in his innings, added 60 runs for the fourth wicket with Milinda Siriwardana and resurrected the chase. By the time he departed, Sri Lanka needed just 18 off 17 balls and they huffed and puffed to make it off the final ball of the match.

Nevertheless, Gunaratna’s innings didn’t go in vain and he was awarded the Player of the Match trophy too.