The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as host Sri Lanka takes on Afghanistan in the first T20I of the three-match series at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Saturday. With both teams geared up for a thrilling contest, let’s delve into the details of this highly anticipated clash.

Team Previews

Sri Lanka Preview: Boasting a strong white-ball cricket unit, Sri Lanka enters the series as firm favorites. Led by newly-appointed skipper Wanindu Hasaranga, they aim to dominate proceedings. With a full-strength squad, including the likes of Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka looks formidable both in batting and bowling departments.

Afghanistan Preview: After a recent whitewash in the ODI series, Afghanistan seeks redemption in the T20Is. Captain Ibrahim Zadran leads the charge, hoping for a change in fortunes. With Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Najibullah Zadran, and Mohammad Nabi in their ranks, Afghanistan aims to put up an improved batting performance. Their bowling unit, comprising Fareed Ahmad Malik and Mohammad Nabi, holds the key to restricting Sri Lanka.

Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (C), Sadeera Samarawickrama (WK), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Dilshan Madushanka/Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana.

Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen Ul Haq, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Nabi.

Weather Conditions and Venue Details

The weather forecast promises clear skies and a gentle breeze at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. The pitch is expected to offer an intriguing battle between bat and ball.

Toss Prediction and Winning Prediction

Both teams would prefer to bowl first, aiming to restrict the opposition to less than 165 runs. With Sri Lanka in excellent form, especially with players like Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka shining, Sri Lanka are favorites to secure a comfortable win over Afghanistan.

As anticipation builds for this electrifying clash, cricket fans await a thrilling spectacle as Sri Lanka and Afghanistan lock horns in the T20I series opener. Stay tuned for an action-packed encounter at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium!