The ICC 2024 WT20 World Cup Qualifiers are set to ignite the women’s cricket arena with thrilling encounters. Sri Lanka, a regular contender in WT20 World Cups, will battle through the qualifiers this season, while Thailand, eager to make their mark, seek to secure a coveted spot in the global tournament.

Teams Preview

Sri Lanka Preview

Sri Lanka enters the tournament on the back of a remarkable series win against South Africa, where skipper Chamari Athapaththu steered her team to a historic chase with an impressive 195-run innings. Supported by players like Harshitha Samarawickrama and Vishnu Gunaratne, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup boasts of recent match-winning performances.

Their bowling unit, led by Achini Kulasuriya and Sugandika Kumari, has demonstrated remarkable synergy, restricting opponents to below-par scores. With Kavisha Dilhari and Chamari Athapaththu providing crucial overs, Sri Lanka presents a formidable challenge.

Key Players: Achini Kulasuriya, Kavisha Dilhari, Chamari Athapaththu

Predicted Playing XI: Chamari Athapaththu, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera, Kavisha Dilhari, Achini Kulasuriya, Sugandika Kumari, Inoshi Prabhodini, Nilakshi De Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Inoka Ranaweera

Thailand Preview

Thailand aims to bounce back from their recent series loss against Ireland. With Nareumol Chaiwai leading the charge, their batting lineup, including Boothachantam and Nattakhan Chantham, looks to make an impact. However, their bowling unit, spearheaded by C Suthitherang and P Maya, lacks experience on the big stage and seeks to make a mark in the opening match.

Key Players: Boothachantam, Naruemal Chaiwai, Suthitherng

Predicted Playing XI: Nareumol Chaiwai, Boothachantam, Nattakhan Chantham, Suthitherng, Konchenkario, Puthawong, Laomi, Kamponchu, P Maya, Khiaoto, Suwanchanrothi

Pitch and Weather Conditions

Abu Dhabi’s Tolerance Oval is expected to offer a fresh pitch with good pace and carry for this match. The average score is anticipated to range between 150-160 runs. With no weather interruptions expected, the match promises uninterrupted cricketing action.

Toss Prediction and Playing Conditions

Given the unfamiliarity with the pitch conditions, both teams are likely to opt for fielding first to gauge the conditions and chase the total effectively.

Winning Prediction

With confidence soaring after their recent triumphs, Sri Lanka appears poised to dominate the qualifiers. However, Thailand, fueled by the hunger to qualify, poses a spirited challenge. While a victory for Thailand would be a significant boost, Sri Lanka’s seasoned lineup and recent form make them favorites to kick off the qualifiers with a win.

Prediction: Sri Lanka to emerge victorious