The thrilling T20I series between West Indies and Sri Lanka is set to culminate with the third and final T20 match on October 17, 2024, at the iconic Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium. The series has been evenly poised so far, with both teams securing one win each. West Indies emerged victorious in the first T20 by five wickets, while Sri Lanka bounced back in the second game, securing a dominant 73-run win to level the series.
The third match will be a decider, promising an exciting contest between two highly competitive teams.
Teams Overview
West Indies
West Indies have showcased their trademark flair and power-hitting in the series, but consistency remains a concern. Their middle-order batting came through in the first T20, where they chased down a tricky target with confidence. However, in the second match, the Caribbean side faltered in both bowling and batting, allowing Sri Lanka to gain the upper hand.
The Windies will be looking to bounce back and close the series on a high. Their key strength lies in their explosive batting line-up, and they will be hoping to address their bowling weaknesses in this crucial decider.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s resurgence in the second T20 was a testament to their fighting spirit. After a disappointing loss in the first game, they dominated West Indies with both bat and ball in the second match, securing a convincing 73-run victory. The spin duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga was instrumental in dismantling the Windies’ batting order, while their top-order batters contributed significantly to setting a formidable total.
Sri Lanka will be aiming to continue their momentum and clinch the series in front of their home crowd.
Key Players to Watch
West Indies
- Nicholas Pooran – The explosive wicketkeeper-batsman will be crucial in West Indies’ middle-order. His ability to shift gears quickly makes him a dangerous player in the T20 format.
- Shimron Hetmyer – Hetmyer’s aggressive batting style can take the game away from any opposition, and the Windies will be relying on his power-hitting.
- Alzarri Joseph – Leading the West Indian bowling attack, Joseph’s pace and variations will be key in restricting the Sri Lankan batters.
Sri Lanka
- Wanindu Hasaranga – The all-rounder has been exceptional with the ball and handy with the bat. His leg-spin could pose significant challenges for the West Indian batters.
- Kusal Mendis – The Sri Lankan opener will be critical at the top, especially given his form in the second T20, where he provided a solid start.
- Mahesh Theekshana – His mystery spin and ability to bowl economically make him a threat to the West Indian batters.
Head-to-Head in T20
Sri Lanka: 9
West Indies: 8
Tied: 0
Probable Playing XI
West Indies
- Brandon King
- Kyle Mayers
- Nicholas Pooran (wk)
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Rovman Powell (c)
- Johnson Charles
- Jason Holder
- Romario Shepherd
- Akeal Hosein
- Alzarri Joseph
- Obed McCoy
Sri Lanka
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Charith Asalanka
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Chamika Karunaratne
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Kasun Rajitha
- Lahiru Kumara
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024
- Time: 6:30 pm PST (Pakistan Standard Time), 7:00 pm GMT (Greenwich Mean Time), 1:30 pm IST (Indian Standard Time)
- Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium
Pitch Report: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium
The pitch at Rangiri Dambulla traditionally offers something for both batsmen and bowlers. While it generally favours spinners as the game progresses, the early overs can see some swing for the fast bowlers. Teams winning the toss might prefer to bat first, aiming to post a competitive total and then apply pressure with their spinners in the second innings.
Match Predictions
Given the evenly poised nature of the series, the third T20 promises to be a nail-biting contest. West Indies will need their top order to fire, and their bowlers must contain Sri Lanka’Lanka’sic batting line-up. On the other hand, Sri Lanka’Lanka’so victory will be their spinners, who can exploit the conditions in Dambulla to stifle the West Indian batters.
Possible Scenarios
- If West Indies bats first, They will aim to post a total above 170, relying on their power hitters to accelerate in the middle overs.
- If Sri Lanka bats first, Expect them to build a solid foundation through Mendis and Asalanka before Hasaranga and the middle-order finish the innings aggressively.
