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After rain disrupted play in the first ODI at Dambulla, reducing the game to a truncated affair, both Sri Lanka and New Zealand will be hoping for a full 50-over match in Pallekele this Sunday. The home side took the lead in the series, thanks to a strong batting display, and they’ll be eager to seal the series with another win. Meanwhile, the Black Caps, who are trailing 0-1, will look to bounce back and set up a series decider.
| Tournament: | New Zealand tour of Sri Lanka, Oneday, 2024 |
| Format: | odi |
| Venue: | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, Sri Lanka |
| Toss Prediction: | To Bowl |
Teams Preview
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka showcased their dominance in the first ODI, utilizing their experience on home turf to secure a comfortable win. Their batting lineup was in sublime form, posting a formidable total of 324, despite minimal contributions from top-order batters like Pathum Nissanka. The standout performers were Avishka Fernando and Kusal Mendis, who made a century each. Mendis, in particular, was exceptional, scoring a brilliant 143 off 128 balls, reaffirming his status as one of the top run-scorers in international cricket in 2024.
Strengths:
- Solid Batting Depth: Even with some players not firing, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup showed resilience, with multiple players capable of contributing significant runs.
- Spin Attack: The pitch in Pallekele is expected to assist spinners, making Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay crucial in exploiting the conditions.
Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando.
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand entered the series with a relatively inexperienced side, with three players making their ODI debuts in Dambulla. Despite this, the Black Caps showed glimpses of their potential. The opening pair of Will Young and debutant Tim Robinson gave them a strong start with a partnership of 88 runs. However, the rest of the batting lineup failed to capitalize, leaving them short of the target set by Sri Lanka.
Challenges:
- Middle-Order Woes: The experienced trio of Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, and Glenn Phillips failed to make an impact in the first game, and they’ll need to step up if New Zealand are to level the series.
- Bowling Adjustments: The Pallekele pitch may not be as responsive to pace as Dambulla was, which could challenge Jacob Duffy and company to adjust their line and length.
New Zealand Predicted Playing XI:
Will Young, Tim Robinson, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay (wk), Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
- Pallekele Pitch Report: The pitch at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is generally favorable for batters, offering consistent bounce but assisting spinners as the game progresses. Expect spin to play a significant role, and pacers may need to rely on variations.
- Average 1st Innings Score: Around 300-320, with good batting conditions.
- Weather Forecast: The weather in Pallekele is expected to be warm and humid, with temperatures peaking at around 31°C. There’s a slight chance of thunderstorms before the match, but conditions are expected to clear up, allowing for a full 50-over contest.
- Toss Prediction: Teams batting second have had success in recent ODIs at this venue, so expect the captain winning the toss to opt for bowling first.
Winning Prediction
Sri Lanka’s performance in the first ODI showcased their home advantage and experience, especially in batting. However, New Zealand, despite fielding a relatively inexperienced side, showed fighting spirit. With the pitch conditions likely to favor spin, Sri Lanka’s stronger spin attack could give them the edge.
Prediction: Sri Lanka to win and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Captain: Kusal Mendis
- Vice-Captain: Avishka Fernando
- Top Picks: Will Young, Maheesh Theekshana, Michael Bracewell
- Differential Picks: Charith Asalanka, Jacob Duffy, Jeffrey Vandersay
Suggested Playing XI for Fantasy Leagues:
- Kusal Mendis (C)
- Avishka Fernando (VC)
- Will Young
- Michael Bracewell
- Charith Asalanka
- Tim Robinson
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Ish Sodhi
- Jacob Duffy
Get ready for an exciting clash between these two competitive sides as New Zealand looks to bounce back and Sri Lanka aims to seal the series!
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