Hashmatullah Shahidi & Co. is aiming for a turnaround after a recent loss. Hashmatullah Shahidi would be considering batting up the order against Sri Lanka, facing a strong Sri Lankan team in their final group-stage match. They must secure a win to stay in contention for the Super Fours.
Sri Lanka, while victorious over Bangladesh, had some batting struggles. They’ll need their top 3 to perform better in this match against Afghanistan’s potent bowling attack.
Both teams have quality spinners expected to make an impact in the middle overs on Lahore’s batting-friendly pitch.
THE VENUE FOR AFGHANISTAN-SRI LANKA GAME
The match between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
The Lahore pitch is known for its limited bounce and minimal lateral movement, favoring bowlers who can maintain consistent line and length with variations.
Given the pitch’s slower nature, spinners might play a crucial role during the middle overs, with leg-spinners potentially having a greater impact than off-spinners.
Average 1st Inns score: 251
Average 2nd Inns score: 215
TEAM PREVIEW
AFGHANISTAN
Afghanistan, known for their impressive 2018 Asia Cup performance, needs a significant victory to boost their net run rate (NRR) and keep Super Fours hopes alive. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran play a pivotal role. Hashmatullah Shahidi will also look to continue his great batting form as well. Hashmatullah Shahidi needs to bat a bit aggressively and up the ante
Najibullah Zadran and Mohammad Nabi at 5 and 6 are crucial for Afghanistan’s finish. All-rounders like Gulbadin Naib and Karim Janat can contribute with the bat. Afghanistan’s bowling strengths lie in Mujeeb, Nabi, and Rashid’s spin.
EXPECTED XI OF AFGHANISTAN vs SRI LANKA
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman
SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka aims to secure a Super Fours spot with their good NRR from the opening win. Kusal Mendis, the key at number 3, seeks form. The middle order, led by Sadeera Samarawickrama and Charith Asalanka, showed promise in the previous game.
Dhananjaya de Silva and skipper Dasun Shanaka add experience. Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka aim to provide a strong start. Kasun Rajitha and Matheesha Pathirana are crucial pacers, with Maheesh Theekshana excelling in a spin.
EXPECTED XI OF SRI LANKA vs AFGHANISTAN
Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana
PREDICTION FOR THE MATCH
Sri Lanka will back themselves to carry the winning momentum into this match.
Backing Sri Lanka to beat Afghanistan and secure their spot in the Super 4 Stage.
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