The third ODI showdown between Sri Lanka and India promises to be exhilarating, with the series finely balanced. Following Sri Lanka's remarkable comeback in the second match, the teams are set to battle it out at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, August 7.
Buoyed by their recent victory, Sri Lanka aims to achieve a historic series win against India—a feat last accomplished 27 years ago. Meanwhile, India seeks redemption and a series draw to preserve their legacy against Sri Lanka in ODIs.
Match Preview
The ODI series has witnessed a pendulum swing in fortunes for both sides. The series commenced with a thrilling tie, but Sri Lanka retaliated fiercely in the second ODI. Avishka Fernando and his compatriots set a challenging target, underpinned by crucial contributions from Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis, who steered Sri Lanka to a respectable total of 240.
On the bowling front, Jeffrey Vandersay's exceptional six-wicket haul dismantled India's batting lineup, which was effectively supported by skipper Charith Asalanka. India, despite Rohit Sharma's explosive start, faltered under pressure, with the middle order failing to capitalize on the foundation laid by their captain.
Axar Patel's fighting knock went in vain as India succumbed to a 32-run defeat. As the decider looms, India must address its batting inconsistencies, while Sri Lanka will aim to ride their momentum to secure a series victory.
Playing Conditions
The R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is renowned for its spin-friendly track, often testing batters' skills. The pitch typically assists spinners, requiring batters to exhibit patience and technique. Weather conditions forecast warm and humid temperatures, potentially influencing player endurance and the ball's behavior. Dew could play a significant role in the latter part of the match, possibly aiding batting under lights. Winning the toss might tempt teams to bat first and take advantage of a fresher pitch before it deteriorates.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka:
- Pathum Nissanka
- Avishka Fernando
- Kusal Mendis (WK)
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Charith Asalanka (C)
- Kamindu Mendis
- Janith Liyanage
- Dunith Wellalage
- Akila Dananjaya
- Asitha Fernando
- Jeffrey Vandersay
India:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Riyan Parag
- Washington Sundar
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
Key Players
Sri Lanka:
1. Kusal Mendis:
As a seasoned wicketkeeper-batsman, Kusal Mendis provides stability and experience in the Sri Lankan lineup. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a vital cog in Sri Lanka's batting unit. Mendis' performance in the middle order will be crucial for Sri Lanka's chances of setting a competitive total or chasing down India's score.
2. Dunith Wellalage:
Wellalage played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka's batting in both the first and second ODIs, contributing to a crucial partnership that helped them reach a defendable total. As an all-rounder, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds depth to the team. Wellalage's form will be essential in maintaining the balance of the Sri Lankan side.
3. Asitha Fernando:
Fernando's role as a frontline pacer is vital for Sri Lanka to exploit early movement on the pitch. His ability to take early wickets can pressure the Indian batting lineup, disrupting their plans. Fernando's pace and accuracy will be key to Sri Lanka's success in containing India's powerful top order.
India:
1. Virat Kohli:
Kohli's experience and batting prowess make him a critical player for India in high-pressure situations. Known for his ability to chase down targets, Kohli's presence at the crease will be crucial in stabilizing India's innings and building partnerships. He hasn't been in the best batting form lately, but he rises on big occasions.
2. Washington Sundar:
Sundar's all-round capabilities make him a valuable asset for India. His economical bowling in the second ODI played a significant role in restricting Sri Lanka's scoring. Additionally, Sundar's ability to contribute with the bat in the lower order provides depth and flexibility to India's lineup.
3. Mohammed Siraj:
As a spearhead of India's pace attack, Siraj's ability to generate movement and take wickets in the early overs will be crucial. His aggressive bowling style and knack for breakthroughs can set the tone for India's defense or chase. Siraj's role will be pivotal in disrupting Sri Lanka's batting momentum.
Match Prediction
The final ODI between Sri Lanka and India is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams having shown glimpses of brilliance. Sri Lanka's recent victory bolsters its confidence, and it has demonstrated skills in both batting and bowling. However, the Indian team, with its depth and experience, is likely to regroup and strategize effectively to overcome its batting challenges.
India's formidable lineup, capable of adapting to high-pressure situations, gives them a slight edge in this crucial encounter. Despite the setbacks faced in the second ODI, India's resilience and past performances suggest they will emerge victorious in the final match to level the series.