We take a close look at the opening match of the Sub-Continental T20 tri-series, where cricketing giants Sri Lanka and India will battle it out in vibrant Colombo.
This month, three of the four great sub-continental sides kick off the exciting seven-match Nidahas Trophy. The much-anticipated series opener throws familiar rivals Sri Lanka and India back into the fray.
Missing key all-rounder Angelo Mathews again, Sri Lanka face a tough challenge, while India have opted to rest several headline stars such as Virat Kohli, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, and Jasprit Bumrah to give youngsters a chance to shine.
Sri Lanka v India | Tuesday, 6 March | R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | 15:30
Match Winner Forecast Odds
Sri Lanka 19/10
Tie 35/1
India 4/10
Sri Lanka
Historically, Sri Lanka have only managed four wins in 14 T20 matches against India and have not claimed victory in their last seven encounters. This game presents a golden opportunity to take advantage of a slightly underpowered Indian side. However, the R Premadasa Stadium isn’t the easiest venue for the hosts, who have just two wins from 14 T20 internationals there.
Sri Lanka’s squad sees some changes with the recalls of pace duo Nuwan Pradeep and Suranga Lakmal, while wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella drops out in favour of Dhananjaya de Silva. The spin department appears lean with just two specialists – Akila Dananjaya and Amila Aponso. The spin-bowling all-rounder Jeevan Mendis will have added responsibility with both bat and ball.
After a 3-0 clean sweep at the hands of India in December 2017, Sri Lanka will be aiming for a major turnaround. The absence of Angelo Mathews hurts, putting the onus on Upul Tharanga, Dinesh Chandimal, and Thisara Perera to step up at the right time.
India, though weakened, still pose a formidable challenge. Their ace batsmen like Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, and Suresh Raina showed great form against South Africa and will be eager to impress while Kohli and Dhoni rest.
India
This series provides a perfect platform for emerging fast bowlers Jaydev Unadkat and Shardul Thakur to prove their mettle as stand-ins for Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. With the IPL on the horizon, they’ll be looking to hit peak form in this run-up.
India are likely to open bowling with a spinner such as Axar Patel, suited for the slow pitch and conditions at the Premadasa. The weather may favour the batting side and could make bowling second tricky.
Exciting new talents including Deepak Hooda, Mohammed Siraj, Rishabh Pant, Vijay Shankar, and Washington Sundar will make their presence felt despite limited international experience. The 18-year-old Sundar, in particular, has a series that could define his future.
Sri Lanka will aim to rattle the young Indian squad early on, but the visitors’ few veterans have quality leadership to help ease the pressure.
Verdict: India 4/10 (Forecast odds)
India are clear favourites for the series and should dominate from the outset. This match also represents a chance for India to identify promising talent and give exciting youngsters valuable exposure on the international stage.
