What to look forward to T20I series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand It kicks off on Saturday, November 9 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
The series opener marks the first of two T20I encounters, with both teams riding on recent successes and looking to build momentum when they meet in Sri Lankan conditions.
Points to settle for New Zealand
Sri Lanka enter the series with confidence after a recent win West India in both T20I and ODI formats. Sri Lanka displayed an impressive blend of power and consistency to win both series 2-1. Meanwhile, New Zealand also dominate and come in high spirits India with a 3-0 whitewash in the final three-match Test series.
However, the Black Caps are well aware of the challenges in Sri Lanka as they lost the two-match Test series 2-0 on their last visit to the island in September.
Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024: New Zealand’s best XI for T20I series against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s top 11 for the T20I series against New Zealand
1. Charith Asalanka (Captain)
As captain, Asalanka has become one of Sri Lanka’s most valuable assets at the top of the order. Known for his aggressive batting and leadership, his ability to dominate the bowlers early in the innings makes him the lynchpin of Sri Lanka’s batting strategy. Aslanka’s form and assertive approach could trouble the New Zealand bowlers early on.
2. Kusal Mendis (Open)
Mendis, a right-hander with a reputation for boundary-laden starts, will be tasked with setting a high tempo for Sri Lanka’s innings. His ability to handle both pace and spin with equal ease could provide Sri Lanka with an early advantage and give them a platform to build a competitive total.
3. Pathum Nissanka (opener)
At the age of 26, Nissanka has established himself as a key player in the T20 format. A technically sound batter, he brings the adaptability needed to anchor or accelerate shots. His rotating strike and crafting partnership skills will be invaluable in keeping the top tier together.
4. Kusal Perera (Middle Order Batter)
Experience-minded Perera brings experience and composure to the middle order. Known for his finishing ability, Perera can read game situations with precision, making him a reliable asset in the final. His shot selection and strategic play under pressure can be critical at the death.
5. Kamindu Mendis (Medium Order Dough)
Kamindu’s fearlessness and powerful punches make him a game changer in the lineup. Known for his ability to turn matches with quick shots, his presence gives Sri Lanka a boost in the middle innings, with his ability to hit boundaries potentially tilting close games in their favour.
6. Bhanuka Rajapaksa (Gatekeeper Batter)
Rajapaksa brings balance to the team with his dual role of wicketkeeper-batsman. His calm demeanor and clutch batting in the middle order make him a valuable finisher, while his agility behind the stumps ensures tough batting standards.
7. Wanindu Hasaranga (Comprehensive)
One of Sri Lanka’s most versatile players, Hasaranga excels with both bat and ball. His aggressive middle-order batting complements his ability as a top-order spinner and gives Sri Lanka comfort in both departments. Hasaranga’s ability to make breakthroughs or stabilize shots adds depth to the team.
8. Dunith Wellalage (Spin Bowler)
Wellalage, the 21-year-old left-arm spinner, has shown remarkable maturity and control, especially in pressure situations. His spin bowling will be crucial in curbing New Zealand’s aggressive batting during the middle innings, where he can effectively contain runs and take critical wickets.
9. Maheesh Theekshana (Spin Bowler)
As Sri Lanka’s lead spinner, Theekshana offers a blend of guile and experience to the bowling attack. Known for his turn and variation, Theekshana will be a key figure on Sri Lanka’s home pitches where he can use the conditions to his advantage, especially when taking on New Zealand’s middle order.
10. Nuwan Thuhara (Fast Bowler)
Thuhara’s swing and control make him a potent weapon in Sri Lanka’s pace arsenal. His experience of the Sri Lankan conditions and his ability to make early breakthroughs are expected to play a key role in restricting New Zealand’s opening batting.
11. Matheesha Pathirana (Fast Bowler)
Pathirana, a 21-year-old fast bowler, quickly made a name for himself with the yorkers for his speed and accuracy. His lethal delivery makes him the best option in the powerplays and death overs, where his aggression can disrupt partnerships and contain runs, making him a significant threat to New Zealand’s line-up.
