In a highly anticipated showdown, India and Sri Lanka vie for the title of Asia Cup 2023 champions, a significant prelude to the upcoming World Cup. Sri Lanka have been quite unpredictable as the Dasun Shanaka-led side almost were knocked out of the tournament by Afghanistan in the first round itself and at the same time the island nation have displayed an attacking brand of cricket which makes them a team to beat.
India, the favored team, has earned their place in the finals, aiming to secure this victory on their way to the World Cup. Rohit Sharma would be keen to win the tournament as it will have a massive impact and would boost the morale of the team ahead of the marquee ODI WC 2023 commencing from 05th October.
VENUE FOR THE FINAL
R.Premadasa Stadium generally provides favorable conditions for batsmen, particularly in the initial innings, offering a good combination of speed and bounce that encourages exciting contests between bat and ball.
However, as the match goes on, the pitch tends to lose some of its pace and becomes more conducive to spin bowling, posing challenges for batsmen looking to score freely. Spinners are likely to have a significant impact on the game during the middle overs.
The forecast for Colombo anticipates cloudy skies with the possibility of a thunderstorms, particularly in the 2nd innings.
Average 1st Inns scores 232
Average 2nd Inns scores 191
Critical analysis of Asia Cup 2023 final & it’s link
Explained who will win the championship & why and it’s link
TEAM PREVIEW
INDIA
India’s cricket team places great emphasis on the performance of their top five batsmen, comprising Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya. Each of these players is vital in setting a strong foundation and dictating the course of the game through their batting prowess.
However, Ravindra Jadeja’s batting has recently faced scrutiny, motivating him to prove himself if he gets the chance to bat, aiming to dispel doubts and bolster the team’s middle order.
In the bowling department, the return of Jasprit Bumrah as the spearhead is a significant boost. Bumrah’s experience and skill make him a formidable leader of the Indian bowling attack. He will find support in Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj, complementing the pace and spin elements in the bowling lineup effectively.
Moreover, the all-rounder responsibilities will be shouldered by Shardul Thakur and Hardik Pandya, both adept at contributing with both bat and ball. Their dual role adds depth and balance to the team, crucial for a successful campaign. With this lineup, India aspires for a well-rounded performance, striving for excellence in all aspects of the game.
EXPECTED XI OF INDIA vs SRI LANKA
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
Sri Lanka
After a thrilling victory against Pakistan, Sri Lanka’s cricket team is riding high on confidence as they gear up for their next match. In the batting department, the team will look to Kushal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama to sustain their exceptional batting form. Their consistency is crucial for the team’s success. Charith Asalanka, also displaying impressive form with the bat, will play a vital role.
Meanwhile, Dasun Shanaka, striving for a comeback, aims to contribute significantly with both bat and ball. Given his average tournament performance, this is an opportune moment for him to make a strong impact. However, the bowling unit faces a setback as star spinner Maheesh Theekshana is sidelined due to a hamstring injury.
The onus now falls on the young but promising Dunith Wellalage, who showcased his prowess with a five-wicket haul against India in the Super 4 stage. He’ll find support in Matheesha Pathirana and Pramod Madushan as they collectively strive to fill the void left by Theekshana and maintain the team’s winning momentum.
EXPECTED XI OF SRI LANKA vs INDIA
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Kasun Rajitha, Pramod Madushan , Matheesha Pathirana
PREDICTION FOR THE FINAL
India will want to win the Asia Cup at any cost, especially after the disappointment from the last edition. Rohit Sharma’s brigadier got a reality check when the Men in Blue lost the match against Bangladesh by 6 runs. India’s batting line up was exposed and it looks unlikely that the duo Rahul Dravid & Rohit Sharma would outclass Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka will look to defend their crown and playing in front of their own fans, will give them much more motivation to do well. Sri Lanka seem in a strong position after winning a thriller against Pakistan in the Super 4 stage and according to our analysis, the island nation are strong contenders to win the championship.
NOTE: If there is no play because of rain tomorrow then there will be a reserve day (rules just like the Indo- Pak Game). If there is no result on the reserve day as well, The Trophy will be shared between both the teams.
TRIVIA
India And Sri Lanka have faced each other in the Asia Cup Final 7 times before. India leads the scoreline here as they have won 4 times and Sri Lanka have won three times.
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