Sri Lanka are preparing to face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series after their T20I series ended in a 1-1 draw. The first ODI will be held at the Rangiri Dambu?lla International Stadium in Dambulla on Wednesday, November 13.

This series promises to be a crucial test for both teams, with Sri Lanka aiming to build on their recent T20I form and the Blackcaps looking to assert dominan?ce in the 50-over format.

Key Sri lanka players to watch out 

Sri Lanka will rely on a handful of key players to make a significant impact in the ODI series. Opener Pathum Nissanka, who was the highest run-scorer in the T20I series with 71 runs, will be one to watch. His solid technique and ability to anchor the innings make him a crucial figure in the top order. Additionally, Dunith Wellalage, who was one of the most valuable players of the T20I series where he took 3 wickets and and scored some valuable runs, will be instrumental with both ball and bat. His all-round abilities give Sri Lanka the flexibility to challenge New Zealand across all departments.

Best playing XI for Sri Lanka for the ODI series against New Zealand

1. Charith Asalanka (Captain)

• Role: Batting All-Rounder
• Strengths: Asalanka’s aggressive batting style allows him to take charge early in the innings, making him a key player for Sri Lanka. His ability to unsettle bowlers from the outset will be vital for setting a strong foundation.
• Impact: Asalanka, who has matured into a leader, will also captain the side, bringing both his batting prowess and leadership skills to the forefront. His assertive play can shift the momentum of any game, making him an indispensable asset at the top of the order.

2. Kusal Mendis

• Role: Opener
• Strength: Mendis has built a reputation for explosive starts and will be tasked with providing Sri Lanka with a high tempo from the very beginning. His ability to attack both pace and spin effectively makes him a potent weapon at the top.
• Impact: With his attacking mindset, Mendis can lay the groundwork for a competitive total, ensuring that Sri Lanka has a strong platform to build upon in the early overs.

Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024: New Zealand’s?? best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

3. Pathum Nissanka

• Role: Opener
• Strength:  Nissanka’s ability to rotate the strike and build solid partnerships will be crucial for maintaining stability at the top of the order.
• Impact: A technically sound batter, Nissanka has already proven his worth in T20s and is expected to play a pivotal role in anchoring the innings and building partnerships in the ODIs. His adaptability will be key in either anchoring or accelerating the innings as needed.

4. Avishka Fernando

• Role: Top-Order Batter
• Strength: Known for his precise shot selection, Fernando’s ability to read game situations and perform under pressure makes him an experienced asset in the middle order, especially in critical match moments.
• Impact: Fernando’s presence in the middle overs will provide a calm and composed approach, ensuring that Sri Lanka can finish strong when the pressure mounts.

5. Kamindu Mendis

• Role: Middle-Order Batter
• Strength: Mendis’s fearless approach and power-hitting capability provide Sri Lanka with a dynamic option in the middle overs. His quick-fire innings can turn the tide of a game, especially when the batting side needs to accelerate.
• Impact: His boundary-hitting ability in the middle overs will be crucial in helping Sri Lanka gain momentum during the match, especially in tight contests.

6. Kusal Perera

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Strength: Perera’s calm demeanor and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable finisher. His dual role as a wicketkeeper adds balance to Sri Lanka’s side, ensuring solid fielding while being a reliable middle-order batter.
• Impact: Perera will be relied upon to stabilize the innings in the middle order and finish games strongly, ensuring that Sri Lanka can post competitive totals and chase down targets effectively.

7. Jeffrey Vandersay

• Role: All-Rounder
• Strength: Vandersay is one of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic players in ODI, excelling with the ball his skillful spin bowling and ability to take quick wickets in the middle overs will be key against New Zealand’s strong batting lineup.
• Impact: With his ability to turn a game with the ball, Vandersay will be pivotal in providing balance to Sri Lanka’s lineup and ensuring they have the tools to challenge New Zealand across all formats.

8. Dunith Wellalage

• Role: Spinner
• Strength: The left-arm spin of Wellalage will be crucial in containing New Zealand’s aggressive batters during the middle overs. His control and maturity for a young player are commendable, and he has the ability to pick up key wickets when the pressure is high.
• Impact: Wellalage’s composure and control under pressure make him an asset for Sri Lanka, and he will be a key player in the middle overs, helping to slow down New Zealand’s progress while taking crucial wickets.

9. Maheesh Theekshana

• Role: Spin Bowler
• Strength: Theekshana’s ability to generate turn and variation will be a critical weapon in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. His experience will play a significant role in exploiting home conditions, where he can make the most of the spin-friendly pitches.
• Impact: Theekshana will be expected to lead Sri Lanka’s spin attack, especially in key middle-overs phases. His ability to break partnerships and control the game’s tempo will be vital in disrupting New Zealand’s batting order.

10. Asitha Fernando

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Asitha’s swing and control will be a major asset to Sri Lanka’s pace attack. His ability to move the ball in the air will be important, particularly in the early stages of the innings.
• Impact: Asitha’s experience in Sri Lankan conditions, combined with his ability to make early breakthroughs, will be essential in disrupting New Zealand’s opening batters and ensuring that Sri Lanka can put pressure on the opposition from the outset.

11. Dilshan Madushanka

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Madushanka’s express pace and accuracy make him a dangerous weapon, especially during the powerplay and death overs. His yorkers and aggressive approach will be vital in breaking key partnerships and containing runs.
• Impact: Madushanka’s raw pace and aggressive mindset will make him a significant threat, particularly in the final overs, where his ability to execute deliveries under pressure will play a major role in restricting New Zealand’s scoring.

Also READ: 5 New Zealand players to record a hat-trick in T20Is ft. Lockie Fer??gus??on

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Following Sri Lanka‘s series victory over India, Sri Lankan head coach Sanath Jayasuriya highlighted the extensive efforts of the management team in developing young talents such as Dunith Wellalage, Pathum Nissanka, and Avishka Fernando.

Jayasuriya also revealed the significant contribution of a surprising name who played a crucial role in the team’s success in the 50-over format. This revelation underscored the effective strategies and talent development implemented by the coaching staff, which were instrumental in securing the series win.

Sanath Jayasuriya praised the young players of the team 

In the third ODI of the series, Fernando’s impressive innings of 96 runs and Wellalage’s exceptional five-wicket haul led Sri Lanka to a commanding 110-run victory over India. Fernando’s substantial contribution with the bat set a solid foundation, while Wellalage’s outstanding performance with the ball ensured India’s batting collapse, securing the series win for Sri Lanka. With their dominant victory, Sri Lanka won the ODI series 2-0 against India. This series win marks the first time in 27 years that Sri Lanka has defeated India in an ODI series.

The legendary Sri Lankan all-rounder disclosed that the team participated in a week-long program with Zubin Bharucha, the Director of High Performance for the Rajasthan Royals (RR). This collaboration was part of their preparation and development strategy, aimed at enhancing the team’s performance.

“I got Zubin from Rajasthan Royals and he came and did a seven day coaching programme. We learnt a lot, the players learnt a lot on how to bat long innings, and one batsman was batting 2-3 hours. That gave the batters a lot of confidence,” Jayasuriya was quoted as saying by ANI.

Also READ: Aak??ash Chopra criticizes Indian team bowling after their ODI s??eries defeat against Sri Lanka

Jayasuriya’s connects the victory with the 90’s win over India

With their commanding victory, Sri Lanka won the series 2-0 against Rohit Sharma‘s Indian team. This series win is notable as it is the first time in 27 years that Sri Lanka has defeated India in an ODI series. Jayasuriya mentioned about his past experience when he was the part of winning team in late 90’s.

“It was a very long wait because that series I played in 1997 and got a lot of runs in that series. That was the last series we won against India. After 27 years, I am part of the team and I am very happy to be part of these boys. They are a very nice bunch of players and are talented and the whole country would have seen what we can do,” Jayasuriya concluded.

Match Summary

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin reacts after Sri Lanka beat India in the ODI? series

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In the final game of the ongoing three match ODI series between Sri Lanka and India, Riyan Parag grabbed his maiden ODI wicket as he dismissed Avishka Fernando who scored well made 96 runs off 102 balls.

Riyan Parag’s maiden ODI wicket

On the third delivery of the 36th over, Parag delivered a well-placed leg-spinner that failed to turn, deceiving Fernando. Expecting the ball to spin, Fernando was caught off guard and struck on the pad in front of the stumps. Although the umpire’s decision was out, Fernando opted against reviewing it. Ultimately, he fell just short of a century, concluding his innings with a commendable 96 runs from 102 balls, featuring 9 fours and 2 sixes. His teammates and coach rose from the dugout to give a standing ovation, acknowledging his courageous and remarkable effort.

Here is the video:

.@ParagRiyan does it again 🔥🏏

Watch #SLvIND LIVE on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 4 & Sony Sports Ten 5 📺 #SonySportsNetwork #SLvIND #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/INUXizNReL

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 7, 2024

Also WATCH: Riyan Parag giv??es a heartwarming speech inside the Indian dressing room ahead of his? ODI debut

Sri Lanka’s innings while opting to bat first

Earlier, winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bat first against India. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Avishka gave their team a strong start, putting on 89 runs before Nissanka was dismissed by Axar Patel. Fernando then stepped up and provided crucial runs, inching closer to a century before falling to Parag. Sri Lanka concluded their innings at 248/7 after their allotted 50 overs, with Kusal Mendis ??contributing a solid 59 off 82 balls, including 4 fours.

For India, debutant Parag shone with the ball, claiming 3 wickets in his 9-over spell. Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav each took one wicket, collectively restric??ting Sri Lanka to a manageable total.

Also READ: Sri Lanka announce??s a strong 18-member Test squad for the upcoming tour of England

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Sri Lanka and India are currently battling it out in the first ODI of the three-match series at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Following a dominant T20I series victory, India aims to continue their winning streak, while Sri Lanka looks to bounce back with a strong performance ??in the 50-over format.

Mohammed Siraj draws first blood

Mohammed Siraj made an immediate impact by dismissing Sri Lankan opener Avishka Fernando with a stunning out-swinger. During the third over of Sri Lanka’s? innings, Siraj pitched the ball full, swinging it away from the off-stump line. Fernando attempted ??to flick the ball but closed the face of the bat too early, resulting in a leading edge that flew to third man, where Arshdeep Singh took a simple catch.

Here is the video:

.@mdsirajofficial just loves bowling against Sri Lanka 🔥

Watch the action from #SLvIND LIVE now on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 4 & Sony Sports Ten 5 🙌 #SonySportsNetwork #SLvIND #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ICgBpHKhGL

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 2, 2024

Indian bowlers keep Sri Lankan batters at bay

Following Siraj’s early breakthrough, Indian bowlers continued to exert pressure on the Sri Lankan batting lineup. With disciplined line and length, they managed to restrict the flow of runs and keep the Sri Lankan batters in check. The Indian attack showcased a blend of pace and spin, making it difficult for the hosts to build any significant partnerships.

Also READ: SL vs IND 2024: Here’s why India players wearing black ar??m??bands in the first ODI

An exciting match continues

As the match progresses, the contest remains exciting with both teams vying for supremacy. Sri Lanka will be looking to stabilize their innings and set a challenging target, while India aims to capitalize on their strong start and dominate the ??game. Cricket fans can expect a thrilling encounter as the action unfolds in Colombo.

Shivam Dube returns after 55 months

A notable highlight of the match is Shivam Dube playing his first ODI game after a gap of 55 months. Hi??s last appearance in the 50-over format was back in December 2019 against the West Indies. Dube’s return to the ODI XI was marked by a significant impact as he bagged his maiden wicket by dismissing Kusal Mendis.

Also READ: Netizens react as Shivam Dube returns to the 5??0-over format after a long gap during India’s 1st ODI against Sri Lanka

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The Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) has revealed a strong 16-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against India. The three-match series will be held at the Pallekele Intern??ational Stadium, promising an exciting contest between the two neighboring countries.

Charith Asalanka to lead

Charith Asalanka has been named as the captain of the Sri Lankan team. Under his leadership, the team aims to showcase a robust performance and leverage his strategic prowess to steer the team towards victory. Notably, Asalanka takes over the T20I captaincy from Wanindu Hasaranga after the latter had st??epped down fro??m the role earlier this month.

Sri Lanka looks for redemption

Sri Lanka’s performance in the recent ICC T20 World Cup was disappointing, with the team being knocked out during the group stage after securing just one win out of four games, with one match washed out. This series against India presents a crucial opportunity for the team to rebuild, regain confidence, and demonstrate their capabilities on the international stage.

Key players to shine

The squad comprises several key players who are expected to shine in the series. These include Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Janith Perera, Avishka Fernando, and Kusal Mendis. Experienced players like Dinesh Chandimal and Dasun Shanaka, along with emerging talents such as Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana, add depth to the team. The squad is well-bal??anced with a mix of seasoned players a??nd promising newcomers, setting the stage for a competitive series.

Sri Lanka squad for India T20Is: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Janith P??erera, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Kam??indu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando

Also READ: 3 reasons why S?anju S?amson hasn’t been picked for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

India brings fresh approach

India, too, are bringing a fresh approach to the series with a new coaching setup and leadership. Gautam Gambhir, who was appointed as the head coach following India’s ICC World Cup triumph, is expected to bring innovative strategies and renewed energy to the team. His appointment marks a significant shift in India’s cricketing tactics, as Gambhir is known for his aggressive and tactical mindset both as a former player and a leader.

Alongside him, a blend of experienced and young players in the squad is poised to create a dynamic and unpredictable team under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav. This change in coaching and leadership is aimed at maintaining India’s competitive edge and continuing their recent success on the international stage, making the upcoming matches against Sri Lanka highly anticipated.

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya hugs new assistant coach Abhishek Nayar as India d??eparts for Sri ??Lanka

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As Bangladesh and Sri Lanka gear up to face each other in a thrilling multi-format series, the spotlight falls on the anticipated three-match T20 leg. With both teams eyeing crucial preparation ahead of the T20 W?orld Cup 2024, this series promises intense cricketing action.

Key details

The three-match T20I series is set to kick off at the Sylhet International Cric??ket Stadium, with matches scheduled for March 4, 6, and 9, respectively.

Pathum Nissanka’s absence

Sri Lanka’s batting prowess will be tested as key player Pathum Nissanka will miss the T20I series due to a hamstring injury sustained during the home series against Afghanistan. Despite initial hopes of a swift recovery, Nissanka’s absence has paved the way for Avishka Fernando to join the squad as his replacement.

Leadership change

In an unexpected turn, regular skipper Wanindu Hasaranga will be sidelined for the first two games due to a suspension following his public criticism of umpiring decisions during the final T20I against Afghanistan. As a result, Charith Asalanka will lead the te??am in the first two matches against Bangladesh. Hasaranga is set to resume captaincy duties for the third game of the series.

Sri Lanka’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Bangladesh:

Avishka Fernando: An explosive opener known for his agg??ressive batting style, Avishka Fernando brings firepower to the top orde?r.

Kusal Mendis (wk): With a solid batting technique and adept wicketkeeping skills, Kusal Mendis adds depth to the team’s lineup.

Sadeera Samarawickrama: A dynamic batsman capab??le of scoring quick runs, Sadeera Samarawickrama provides stability in ??the middle order.

Charith Asalanka (Captain for the first two games): Stepping up in the absence of Hasaranga, Asalanka’s leadership and all-round abilities will be crucial in guiding the team.

Angelo Mathews: A seasoned campaigner with a wealth o??f experience, Angelo Mathews offers leadership and stability in the middle order.

Also READ: Sri Lanka announc??es 17-member squad for T20I series against Bangladesh; Charith Asalan??ka to lead in the first two games

Dasun Shanaka: Known for hi??s aggressive batting and handy medium pace bowling, Dasun Shanaka is a val?uable asset in the lineup.

Wanindu Hasaranga (Captain and available for last game)/Kamindu Mendis (only for the first two games in place of Hasaranga): A dynamic all-rounder, Hasaranga’s return in the third game will bolster the team’s performance, while Kamindu Mendis provides a suitable replacement in his absence.

Matheesha Pathirana: A promising young ?fast bowler with raw pace, Matheesha Pathirana adds firepower to the bowling attack.

Akila Dananjaya: An experienced spin?ner known for his variations, Akila Dananjaya poses a threat to opposition batsmen.

Maheesh Theekshana: A talented leg-spinner with a deceptive googly, Maheesh Theekshana brings variety to the? spin department.

Dilshan Madushanka: A lively fast bowler capable of generating bounce and? swing, Dilshan Madushanka completes the bowling lineup with his aggressive approach.

Also READ: Afghanist?an name 16-member squad for Ireland ODIs; Rashid Khan & Muje?eb Ur Rahman unavailable

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In a masterful display of cricketing prowess, Sri Lanka orchestrated a comprehensive 3-0 series whitewash against Afghanistan at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday (February 14). The third ODI unfolded with a fascinating clash, featuring captivating performances and a decisive knock from the ever-impressive Pathum Nissanka, who was eventually named Player of the Match?? and Play??er of the Series as well.

Afghanistan’s spirited effort

Opting to bat first, Afghanistan commenced with a spirited effort, buoyed by Rahmanullah Gurbaz‘s attacking start and Ibrahim Zadran‘s calculated aggression. The duo set the stage, amassing 36 runs in just four overs. However, the dismissal of Ibrahim due to Avishka Fernando‘s quick fielding marked a turning point, and the lower order struggled to build momentum. Despite Rahmat Shah‘s steadfast innings of 65 and partnerships with Azmatullah Omarzai and Ikram Alikhil, Afghanistan posted a challenging but ultimately insufficie??nt score of 266/10 in 48.2 over?s.

Sri Lanka’s dominant response

Sri Lanka’s reply was marked by an extraordinary opening partnership of 173 runs, with Fernando delivering a solid 91-run performance. However, it was Nissanka who stole the limelight once again with a commanding century. Nissanka’s sublime form, previously highlighted by a double-century in the series, showcased his consistency and class. Kusal Mendis contributed a brisk 40, ensuring Sri Lanka ??stayed comfortably on course for victory.

Pathum Nissanka’s knock: A feature of brilliance

The standout feature of the match was undeniably Pathum Nissanka’s innings. His adept stroke play, unwavering focus, and ability to anchor the innings have elevated him as a linchpin in Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. Nissanka’s century in this match further cements his reputation as a batsman of extraordinary caliber, capable of dominating the opposition with grace and authority.

Also READ: Bangladesh names T20I and ODI squads for Sr?i Lanka series; Shakib al Hasan left out after Najmul Hossain Shanto takes over as new skipper

Flawless execution and whitewash

Despite minor hiccups towards the end, Sri Lanka’s chase remained virtually flawless, showcasing the team’s collective strength and determination. The seven-wicket victory with almost 15 overs to spare underscored Sri Lanka’s dominance throughout the series. The clinical performance not only secured a whitewash but also highlighted the emergence of Nissanka as a key protagonist in Sri Lanka’s cricketing narrative.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

A dominant series victory by SL🇱🇰👏
It’s amazing to see the way Nissanka has performed in this series. A solid and an aggressive opening batsman of his quality will do wonders for SLC in LOIs🤩
Well played team🙌#SLvAFG

— Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) February 14, 2024

Congrats to Pathum Nissanka.

The quickest Sri Lankan to 2000 ODI runs.
The best batsman in the country at the moment.#SLvAFG pic.twitter.com/Tim5g0Ia1n

— S (@Sakun_SD) February 14, 2024

I could get used to this celebration you know.

5th ODI century and the fastest Sri ??Lankan to ??2000 ODI runs.

Pathum Nissanka 🔥 #SLvAFG pic.twitter.com/pbhAGLuXfD

— Naveen Peiris (@_Naviya_) February 14, 2024

�?Double Hundred in 1st match of the series.
�?Hundred in 3rd match of the series.

Take a bow, Pathum Nissanka – Phenomenal batting display in this series. He is in The form his life… #SLvAFG pic.twitter.com/ftICqJdzSB

— Thurunu Jayasiri (@ThurunuJ) February 14, 2024

Sri Lanka DOMINATE! 🇱🇰 They whitewash Afghanistan 3-0 in the ODI series, their first clean sweep since 2020! #SLvAFG pic.twitter.com/QcaR29BzN0

— Azzam Ameen (@AzzamAmeen) February 14, 2024

Sri Lanka comfortably won the match and the series 3-0 with the Nissanka taking home player of the match and player of the series. 🇱🇰👊#SLvAFG pic.twitter.com/9KpOPKpS2M

— Shan Akku (@akkuslc) February 14, 2024

Domination from start to finish! Sri Lanka sweep the ODI series against Afghanistan 3️⃣-0️⃣, winning the final match by 7 wickets. 🇱🇰🏆🇱🇰#SLvAFG pic.twitter.com/9D5g4LO6ib

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) February 14, 2024

Pathum Nissanka has become the fastest Sri Lankan to score 2000 ODI runs. Upul Tharanga had got to the milestone in ??his 63rd innings. Nissanka needed just 52 innings.

— Rex Clementine (@RexClementine) February 14, 2024

Brilliant effort by Sri Lanka to whitewash Afghanistan. Grea??t to see the bench strength r??ising to the occasion. Congratulations Kusal Mendis and the team.

— Roshan Abeysinghe (@RoshanCricket) February 14, 2024

Defeat in Kandy!

Another tough day in the office for AfghanAtalan, as they have failed to defend the target in the third game. Congratulations to Sri Lanka for winning the game by 7 wickets and taking the series 3-0. 👍#AfghanAtalan | #SLvAFG2024 pic.twitter.com/EF54oKYcxV

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) February 14, 2024

Sri Lanka beat Afghanistan by 7 wickets in the third and final ODI: //t.co/nk24moiKs0#cricket #SLvAFG #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/6idKa7IiXB

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 15, 2024

Also READ: BCCI ??secretary Jay Shah names India captain and vice-captain for T20 Wo??rld Cup 2024

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