After being completely outplayed in the first match of this ongoing three-match ODI series, Sri Lanka put up an improved show in the next outing. Defending 276, they had India tottering at 193/7. Unfortunately for them, even from such a commanding position, Dasun Shanaka and his boys failed to close the game.
Coach Mickey Arthur’s visible post-match frustration summed up their performance in those last 10 overs of the encounter.
Now, in order to lift the morale in the camp, Sri Lanka are in a desperate need of a win. And on Friday, 23 July, they will get an opportunity to rectify their mistakes as both teams lock horns for the final ODI of this series.
Meanwhile, in the times of the World Cup Super League, there are no dead rubbers, at least for Sri Lanka. On Friday, they will not just play for pride, but also for 10 points in order. They need that to return to the race for a direct qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
At present, with 9 defeats in their last 10 completed ODIs, Sri Lanka have just 12 points and placed at No. 12 out of 13 contesting sides. As per the rules, only the top eight sides (including India, who qualify automatically as hosts) will directly qualify. The other two spots will be decided by a Qualifier. Sri Lanka, former World Champion and two-time runner-up, will want to avoid the humiliation of having to qualify.
However, India do not need to worry about all these. Shikhar Dhawan, Rahul Dravid and the team management can afford to try out some new faces in this fixture.
Sanju Samson, who was initially considered as the first choice wicketkeeper for the 50-over leg of this tour, has recovered from his niggle and will be available for selection. The visitors might also think about giving Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yuzvendra Chahal a break. In their spots, Navdeep Saini and Rahul Chahar can be tried out.
Head to head
India have beaten Sri Lanka in 93 ODIs and have lost 56.
– Pacer Kasun Rajitha, who came into the second game for Isuru Udana, will not be available due to a niggle. He may be replaced by Lahiru Kumara.
– The pitch for this game will be on the slower side. So, someone like Wanindu Hasaranga can be a good choice for the role of vice-captain in your fantasy side.
– Shikhar Dhawan will once again be an ideal pick for captain. He played a lazy shot to get out in the last game, and will be hungry to make up for that.
Likely XIs
India: Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Manish Pandey, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Rahul Chahar
Sri Lanka: Avishka Fernando, Minod Bhanuka (wk), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera, Lakshan Sandakan, Lahiru Kumara
Prediction
Expect India to dominate proceedings and register 11th successive win against the hosts in Sri Lanka.