With the three-match series level at 1-1, the third and final ODI between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe will be played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on 21 January. If Zimbabwe win the contest, it will be their first series win in the ongoing inaugural Super League cycle.
Despite losing the first ODI by five wickets, Zimbabwe did not changes to their side for the second. Their batters again impressed, posting 302/8 this time. Craig Ervine got a 98-ball 91 and Sikandar Raza a 46-ball 56. Regis Chakabva and Sean Williams, who made 72 and 100 respectively in the first match, also got 40s. Barring Jeffrey Vandersay, Sri Lanka bowlers did not get a wicket in the first 35 overs on a flat Pallekele surface.
Coming to chase, Sri Lanka were reduced to 63/4, and a big defeat loomed large. Dasun Shanaka then hit a 94-ball 102 from No. 6. Kamindu Mendis provided support, and Sri Lanka stayed in the game. However, in the end, they fell 22 short to close on 280/9.
Zimbabwe are unlikely to flirt with their winning combination. They had won the 2017 ODI series in Sri Lanka by beating them in the last two matches, and will look for an encore. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, may bring in Ramesh Mendis for Maheesh Theekshana. Since 2019, they have won three of their four bilateral ODI series at home, and will be keen to avoid slip-ups.
Likely XIs
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Charith Asalanka, Ramesh Mendis, Chamika Karunaratne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Pradeep.
Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Regis Chakabva (wk), Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Sean Williams, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Tendai Chatara, Richard Ngarava.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Place your bet on Sri Lanka. Make Asalanka captain and Nissanka vice-captain.
- Chakabva and Williams have been consistent with bat in this series. Include both. Add Ervine, Raza and Muzarabani as well from Zimbabwe.
- Shanaka and Karunaratne are the must-have choices from Sri Lanka.
Fantasy XI
Regis Chakabva, Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka (vc), Craig Ervine, Dasun Shanaka, Sean Williams, Chamika Karunaratne, Sikandar Raza, Ramesh Mendis, Jeffrey Vandersay, Blessing Muzarabani.