India will play against Sri Lanka in the third T20 match of the three-match T20 series at Pallekele Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka. The game will start at 6:30 pm on July 30.
Team Overview
India has a 2-0 lead in this series. India won the first match by 43 runs and defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the second match.
Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka has been in impressive form in the shortest-game format. The team boasts a balanced combination of aggressive batters and skilful bowlers. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis form a formidable opening pair capable of providing explosive starts. The experienced Kusal Perera adds depth to the batting line-up. All-rounders like Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga bring versatility. At the same time, the pace attack, spearheaded by Matheesha Pathirana and supported by Asitha Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka, ensures a potent bowling unit.
Under Hardik Pandya’s leadership, India is fielding a star-studded team. The top order, featuring Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, promises fireworks from the outset. Middle-order stalwarts Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav add stability and flair. All-rounders Riyan Parag and Axar Patel provide balance to the side. The bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj’s fiery pace and the left-arm swing of Arshdeep Singh, is complemented by Ravi Bishnoi’s spin prowess.
Head to Head in T20s
In T20 Internationals, India and Sri Lanka have faced each other 31 times, with India emerging victorious on 21 occasions, while Sri Lanka has won 9 matches. This head-to-head record gives India a psychological edge, but Sri Lanka, playing on home soil, will be determined to tilt the balance in their favor.
Key Players
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka: A technically sound batsman capable of anchoring the innings.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: A match-winner with both bat and ball, his leg-spin can turn the game.
- Kusal Perera: An experienced campaigner whose explosive batting can provide quick runs.
India
- Hardik Pandya: The captain’s all-round capabilities make him a crucial asset in batting and bowling.
- Suryakumar Yadav: Known for his innovative shots and aggressive approach, he can change the game’s dynamics.
- Ravi Bishnoi: A young leg-spinner with various deliveries that can trouble any batter.
Pitch Report
The pitch at Pallekele traditionally offers something for both batsmen and bowlers. Early on, the surface is expected to be batting-friendly with good 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 more accessible for the 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
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
- Tapmad in Pakistan
Match Predictions
Predicting the outcome of this match is challenging, given the strengths and recent performances of both teams. India might be the favorites with a superior head-to-head record and a well-balanced squad. However, buoyed by home advantage and a supportive crowd, Sri Lanka can never be underestimated. Key battles such as Nissanka vs Siraj and Hasaranga vs Suryakumar Yadav will likely play a decisive role in determining the match’s 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).
Probable Scenarios
Scenario 1:
IND won the toss and decided to bat first
Power Play: 55-60 runs
First-inning Total: 200-210
IND won the match
Scenario 2:
IND won the toss and decided to bowl first
Power Play: 40-50 runs
First-inning Total: 165-175
IND won the match
