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Published 09:28 IST, April 5th 2023

GT vs DC: Netizens erupt with joy as Dasun Shanaka named as Kane Williamson's replacement

Gujarat Titans have brought in Dasun Shanaka as the replacement for injured Kane Williamson. The player is set to join the GT squad soon.

Reported by: Prateek Arya
Image: AP | Image: self

GT vs DC: After enduring a huge setback in the form of Kane Williamson getting ruled out of the IPL 2023, Gujarat Titans finally have news to cherish in the department of squad addition. With Williamson gone, GT have brought in the Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka as the worthy replacement for the Kiwi batsman. This will be Shanaka's first stint in the Indian Premier League.

In the IPL 2023 opener between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings, Kane Williamson injured himself when he landed awkwardly on his knee while fielding at deep square leg trying to save an air-borne ball destined to land outside the boundary. Williamson though was successful in his attempt but in return paid the biggest price. Thus, one of the biggest strengths of the GT squad and one of the star attractions of IPL 2023 has gone out. Williamson has been receiving wishes from the entire cricket fraternity.

Williamson's departure meant a void to fill for the Titans, and indeed they acted quickly. The franchise has brought in Dasun Shanaka as the substitute. Shanaka, who is the captain of Sri Lanka, has played 181 T20s in his career and scored 3702 runs. In the bowling department, he has taken a total of 59 wickets. Shanaka raised the eyebrows of fans all around when he scored 124 runs in the 3-match T20 series against India, which included the match-winning 56-run knock off 22 balls in the 2nd T20.

Netizens erupt with joy as Dasun Shanaka named as Kane Williamson's replacement 

At the IPL 2023 auction, Dasun Shanaka went unsold, and fans were in disbelief as the player had proved himself on the biggest stage against India. However, eventually, he is set to become a part of the tournament with GT acquiring the Lankan skipper's services. The fans were happy after the recent development around Shanalka and expressed contentment on social media.

So, with Shanaka's inclusion Gujarat Titans have solidified their lineup. And with the tournament being long fans could expect that at a certain point, the fresh signing will make it to the playing XI. 

Updated 09:30 IST, April 5th 2023

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