Key Concern: Sri Lanka’s Middle-Order Struggles
In the initial T20I, Sri Lanka collapsed losing nine wickets for 30 runs. The trend continued in the second match with seven wickets falling for 32 runs. This has been a recurring issue for the host team under Charith Asalanka’s leadership as Sri Lanka’s new T20I captain. Asalanka himself failed to deliver with scores of 0 and 14 in the two games.
While the top three batsmen have performed consistently, Sri Lanka’s middle and lower order have struggled. Pathum Nissanka has been the standout performer with Kusal Perera and Kusal Mendis contributing as well. However, beyond these key players, the team has faced a lack of significant contributions from the rest of the batting lineup.
It is crucial for Sri Lanka to address their middle-order woes and capitalize on the strong starts provided by the top order.
On the other hand, India has already clinched the series with dominant displays and will look to give more opportunities to players like Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh, and Riyan Parag to gain valuable experience.
Performance Analysis
Sri Lanka: LLWLL (Results in last five completed T20Is, with the most recent being the first)
India: WWWWW
Players in Focus – Pathum Nissanka and Rishabh Pant
Pathum Nissanka has been the standout performer with consistent performances in the series. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant has shown promise but needs to deliver more consistently for India in the shortest format of the game.
Team Updates
Sri Lanka is expected to maintain a similar playing XI for the upcoming game. Avishka Fernando or Dinesh Chandimal might replace Dasun Shanaka in the lineup. Meanwhile, India may consider resting a fast bowler and giving opportunities to other squad members like Washington Sundar.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The upcoming match will take place on a fresh pitch in Pallekele. The conditions are expected to be similar to the previous matches, with the pitch favoring spinners as the game progresses.
Stats and Trivia
- Matheesha Pathirana has had success against Suryakumar Yadav, dismissing him in all three T20 innings bowled to him.
- Mohammed Siraj has struggled against Sri Lanka in T20Is, averaging 39 against them compared to 7.68 in ODIs.
- Wanindu Hasaranga has been successful against India, taking 15 wickets against them, including dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal twice in the current series.
Quotes
“The obvious thing to say is that we don’t have enough power, but that’s not true. If you look at our stats this year, we’re neck and neck with other teams for six-hitting. More than skills, I think handling tough situations have been our problems.” – Sri Lanka batting coach Thilina Kandamby on the team’s challenges.
Abhimanyu Bose is a sub-editor with ESPNcricinfo
