Dive into the action as Sri Lanka and India gear up to face off in the electrifying tri-series clash happening this Monday in Colombo.
The tournament heats up with no team left unbeaten, and the upcoming fourth match promises excitement with Sri Lanka keen to recover after a tough loss to Bangladesh.
India, who cruised past Bangladesh comfortably, now face the challenge of correcting mistakes from their opening defeat to Sri Lanka last week.
Sri Lanka vs India | Monday, 12 March | R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | 15:30
Match Betting Odds
Sri Lanka 14/10
Tie 35/1
India 57/100
Sri Lanka’s Challenge
At the R Premadasa Stadium, runs are flying, and Sri Lanka is under pressure to defend totals better, especially after failing to keep 214 against Bangladesh. Key players like Akila Dananjaya need to regain their edge, with Suranga Lakmal’s spot in the side under review.
Kusal Mendis continues to be the backbone of their batting, but the team requires more solid contributions. Captain Dinesh Chandimal, also the wicketkeeper, is juggling a heavy workload that impacts his batting performance.
Getting rid of India’s fiery opener Shikhar Dhawan early could turn the tides, as he’s been in great form leading a relatively young bowling attack. Veteran Upul Tharanga should step up to target India’s less experienced seamers, especially with Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar resting.
India’s Outlook
India remembers the lessons from their last encounter against Sri Lanka and knows their bowlers must deliver consistently, including wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal who must shine in the absence of Kuldeep Yadav.
Rishabh Pant’s promotion up the order poses an exciting option to capitalize on his potential, especially with senior stars Virat Kohli and Mahendra Singh Dhoni away. Washington Sundar’s role with the new ball also promises variation to disrupt Sri Lanka’s rhythm on this predictable pitch.
Captain Rohit Sharma has been winning tosses and opting to bowl first, a tactic likely to continue given India’s strong chasing record, especially at this venue. His leadership and batting will be crucial for setting the tone.
Prediction: India 57/100
With Sri Lanka still reeling from their recent loss, expect India to bounce back strongly, potentially sealing the tri-series early and shifting the championship momentum significantly before the final showdown.
