After a thrilling opening encounter in Pallekele, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan gear up for the second ODI of the series on Sunday, February 11th. With Sri Lanka securing a 42-run victory in the previous match, the stakes are high as both teams eye a crucial win. Let’s dive into the preview of this highly anticipated day-night clash.
Match Details:
- Date: Sunday, February 11th
- Time: 14:30 local time
- Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
Overview: Sri Lanka enters the second ODI riding high on confidence after their impressive win over Afghanistan in the series opener. Having already secured victories against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan earlier in 2024, Sri Lanka aims to continue their winning momentum. However, they must display solid batting prowess once again against a resilient Afghanistan side.
Afghanistan, despite the loss in the previous encounter, showcased determination and batting depth, posing a significant challenge to Sri Lanka. With a belief in their abilities, Afghanistan aims to level the series with a strong performance in the upcoming match.
Live Streaming and TV Channels:
- TV Channels: Sony Sports Ten 5
- Live Streaming: Sony Liv app, Sony Liv website
Toss Prediction: Given the rising humidity levels, both captains are likely to opt for fielding first upon winning the toss, similar to the previous match.
Pitch Report: The pitch at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium favors batsmen, offering good bounce and making it challenging for bowlers, especially as the ball loses its shine. A par score of 360+ is anticipated in this encounter.
Weather Forecast: The temperature is expected to decrease from 30 degrees to 24 degrees throughout the match, with humidity levels rising from 55% to 85%.
Team Previews and Predicted Playing XIs:
- Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (c) (wk), Charith Asalanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pramod Madushan, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka
- Afghanistan Predicted Playing XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad
Key Players to Watch:
- Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Dushmantha Chameera
- Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Fareed Ahmad
Match Prediction: With home advantage and a strong lineup, Sri Lanka is favored to clinch another victory and take a 2-0 lead in the series. However, Afghanistan is expected to put up a fierce fight, making it an exciting contest.
Betting Odds: Sri Lanka holds the upper hand with odds in their favor at 1.36, while Afghanistan stands at 3.00 to level the series.
Final Verdict: Expect a thrilling showdown between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, with Sri Lanka likely to emerge victorious and extend their lead in the series. With both teams eager for a win, cricket fans can anticipate an action-packed encounter at Pallekele on Sunday.
Suraj Mahto