Sri Lanka will face India in the second T20 match of a three-match series at Pallekele Cricket Stadium on July 28. The game will start at 6:30 pm.
Team Overview
Sri Lanka
India won their first match against Sri Lanka with 43 runs.
Playing first, India scored 213 runs for the loss of seven wickets, while Sri Lanka scored 170 runs in 19.2 overs, losing all their wickets.
Under the astute leadership of Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka has shown remarkable improvement in the shortest format of the game. The island nation has a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and young talents. The dynamic Pathum Nissanka and the explosive Kusal Mendis spearhead the batting line-up. Kusal Perera’s return adds depth and experience, while the all-round prowess of Dasun Shanaka provides stability. Wanindu Hasaranga, a wizard with the ball, is a match-winner in his own right. The pace battery, led by the young sensation Matheesha Pathirana, Asitha Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka, ensures a potent attack.
India
India, led by the charismatic Hardik Pandya, enters the contest with a star-studded squad. The batting order looks formidable, with Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top, followed by the versatile Rishabh Pant and the flamboyant Suryakumar Yadav. Riyan Parag and Rinku Singh add depth to the middle order. Axar Patel brings all-around capabilities, while the bowling department, featuring the lethal pace of Mohammed Siraj and the crafty left-arm swing of Arshdeep Singh, is further bolstered by the spin wizardry of Ravi Bishnoi.
Head to Head in T20s
In T20 Internationals, India and Sri Lanka have faced off 30 times, with India holding a significant edge with 20 victories to Sri Lanka’s 9. This head-to-head record gives India a psychological advantage, but playing on home turf, Sri Lanka will be keen to even the score.
Key Players
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka: Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to anchor the innings.
Wanindu Hasaranga: A game-changer with both bat and ball, his leg-spin can turn the match around.
Kusal Perera: His experience and explosive batting at the top can give Sri Lanka a flying start.
India
Hardik Pandya: The captain’s all-round abilities make him a crucial asset in both departments.
Suryakumar Yadav: His 360-degree batting style and aggressive approach can dismantle any bowling attack.
Ravi Bishnoi: A young leg-spinner with variations that can trouble even the best of batters.
Pitch Report
The Pallekele pitch traditionally assists both batsmen and bowlers. Early on, the pitch is expected to be conducive to batting with a nice, even bounce. As the game progresses, spinners will likely come into play, exploiting any turn and variable bounce. Dew could be a factor in the second innings, making it slightly easier for batters under lights.
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kusal Mendis
- Kusal Perera
- Kamindu Mendis
- Charith Asalanka (c)
- Dasun Shanaka
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Mahesh Theekshana
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Asitha Fernando
- Dilshan Madushanka
India
- Shubman Gill
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Rishabh Pant
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya (c)
- Riyan Parag
- Rinku Singh
- Axar Patel
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
Match Predictions
Predicting a winner is challenging, given both teams’ strengths and current form. India, with its superior head-to-head record and balanced squad, might be the favourites on paper. However, buoyed by home advantage and a passionate crowd, Sri Lanka can never be counted out. Key battles, such as Nissanka vs Siraj and Hasaranga vs Suryakumar Yadav, could determine the outcome.
Match details
The second t20 match between India and Sri Lanka will be played in Pallekele Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka, on July 28. This match will start at 6:30 pm (PST), 7:00 pm (IST) and 1:30 pm (GMT).
Where to Watch the Live Telecast of the India vs Sri Lanka T20I Series in India and Pakistan
- TV Broadcast:
- Sony Sports Network
- Channels:
- Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi) SD and HD
- Sony Sports Ten 4 (Tamil or Telugu)
- Sony Sports Ten 5 SD and HD
- Online Streaming:
- Sony Liv app and website
- Taomad in Pakistan
Probable Scenarios
Scenario 1:
IND won the toss and decided to bat first
Power Play: 50-60 runs
First-inning Total: 190-200
IND won the match
Scenario 2:
IND won the toss and decided to bowl first
Power Play: 45-50 runs
First inning total: 160-155
IND won the match
