SA vs SL Match Preview

South Africa and Sri Lanka will play their second Test on December 5th, 2024, at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Marco Jansen took 11 wickets in the first Test, which South Africa won by 233 runs. This victory increased South Africa's chances of achieving the World Test Championship (WTC) final. This match will also be the decider for the spot in WTC finals, as still 4 teams (India, Australia, South Africa, Sri Lanka) are fighting for the finals ticket.

SA vs SL Match Details

South Africa vs Sri Lanka – 2nd Match, Test Match

Venue: St George's Park, Gqeberha

Date & Time: 05th December 2024 at 02:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

SA vs SL Venue Stats

SA vs SL Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SA vs SL Weather Report

The weather forecast calls for sunny skies for the first three days, with rain increasing over the last two.

SA vs SL Last Five Matches

SA vs SL Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sufiyan Muqeem creates T20I history for Pakistan in their one-sided win against Zimbabwe

SA vs SL Probable Playing XIs:

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis(w), Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva(c), Kamindu Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma(c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne(w), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kwena Maphaka, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada

Topmost Picks for SA vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Temba Bavuma –  His leadership and batting skills will be vital in the second Test against Sri Lanka. His stability at the top order sets up a strong team platform.
• Marco Jansen – Left-arm seamer who can trouble batsmen with his pace and swing. He has done well in recent months and looks forward to doing well.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Kamindu Mendis – Talented top-order batsman who can provide a solid start to the team’s innings.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando managed 5 wickets in the South African 1st Test after a long, hard toil.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma, Dhananjaya de Silva(VC), Kamindu Mendis, Marco Jansen(C), Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SA vs SL Dream11 Team:

Dinesh Chandimal, Pathum Nissanka, Tristan Stubbs(C), Temba Bavuma(VC), Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Marco Jansen, Tristan Stubbs

Vice-captain – Temba Bavuma, Dhananjaya de Silva

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SA vs SL Probable Winners:

South Africa is likely to maintain their dominant form, after taking the first Test convincingly. Nevertheless, Sri Lanka will attempt to level the series. The opponent will need to deal with their batting issues and devise a strategy to counter South Africa's potent pace attack. If they can do so, they might be able to push the opponents and make the game competitive. On the other hand, if South Africa maintains their intensity and discipline, they are likely to lead the series 2-0. Considering the team combination, South Africa is expected to win this match.

SA vs SL Match Preview

The hosts, South Africa, will look to take a quick advantage in the two-match Test series over Sri Lanka. The team recently suffered consecutively series losses to South Africa and England and will be looking for a turnaround. Sri Lanka will also hope to reverse their fortunes following their series loss to India. South Africa has a good record against Sri Lanka. They have won the last four Tests against Sri Lanka and will look to extend that streak. The South Africa players are well aware of the conditions and intend to take advantage of them. Sri Lanka is fielding a young team, so it will be interesting to observe if they can deliver.

SA vs SL Match Details

South Africa vs Sri Lanka – 1st Match, Test Match

Venue: Kingsmead, Durban

Date & Time: 27th November 2024 at 01:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

SA vs SL Venue Stats

SA vs SL Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SA vs SL Weather Report

The weather forecast calls for sunny skies for the first three days, with rain increasing over the last two.

SA vs SL Last Five Matches

SA vs SL Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanjiv Goenka shares their thoughts of buying Pant

SA vs SL Probable Playing XIs:

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kusal Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Milan Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Aiden Markaram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Dane Paterson

Topmost Picks for SA vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Tristan Stubbs –  Tristan Stubbs is the rising star in the team, and he must do well in the middle order.
• Marco Jansen – Marco Jansen has done well in recent months and looks forward to doing well.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Kamindu Mendis – Kamindu Mendis's experience and solid technique will bolster the middle order.
• Kasun Rajitha – Kasun Rajitha managed a five-wicket haul in the South African first innings of the second Test after a long, hard toil.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Aiden Markaram, Marco Jansen(C), Kamindu Mendis(VC), Dhananjaya de Silva, Keshav Maharaj, Asitha Fernando

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SA vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Kyle Verreynne, Pathum Nissanka(C), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs(VC), Aiden Markaram, Marco Jansen, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Keshav Maharaj, Asitha Fernando

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Marco Jansen, Pathum Nissanka

Vice-captain – Kamindu Mendis, Tristan Stubbs

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SA vs SL Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka has struggled with maintaining consistency. The team will be missing key players for this game, so the youngsters must step up and meet the challenge. South Africa has a strong bowling attack and a good record against Sri Lanka. Based on their current performance, we believe the South Africa have a slight advantage. Considering the team combination, South Africa is expected to win this match.

SL vs NZ Match Preview

We are now in the third and final game of the ODI series, and Sri Lanka has already won convincingly. The Sri Lankans kept their nerve in the rain-affected second ODI, winning by three wickets. They will go for a clean sweep and capitalize on the momentum. The young New Zealand team has had trouble on this tour, and they want to avoid a run of whitewashes and finish strong in Asia. Sri Lanka has beaten teams in recent home series. They've only lost once in the last seven games, which boosts the team's confidence. In contrast, New Zealand has consistently struggled in Sri Lanka. The batting lineup has little experience in these conditions. It remains to be seen if the team can put up a strong performance in this game and avoid a series whitewash.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 3rd Match, ODI Match

Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Date & Time: 19th November 2024 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Star player dropped as India women announced squad for Australia series

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Jacob Duffy, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Charith Asalanka – Charith Asalanka has contributed with 380 runs in his last ten ODIs and nine wickets in his last nine ODIs.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Will Young – He is a top-order, right-handed batter. In the recently played 5 matches, this player has scored 48, 26, 89, 105 and 33 runs.
• Jacob Duffy – This player is a right-arm fast-medium bowler and in the recently played 3 matches, he has taken 5 wickets at an average of 18.6. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Will Young, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell(C), Dunith Wellalage(VC), Jacob Duffy, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka(C), Avishka Fernando, Will Young, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner(VC), Michael Bracewell, Dunith Wellalage, Jacob Duffy, Maheesh Theekshana

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Michael Bracewell, Charith Asalanka

Vice-captain – Mitchell Santner, Dunith Wellalage

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

New Zealanders endured a poor tour of Sri Lanka, as has the previous generation of cricketers. Their batsmen haven't timed the ball well and must adjust their approach on these slow tracks. The Sri Lankans possess an excellent home record and the ideal bowling attack for the conditions. This makes them favorites. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

SL vs NZ Match Preview

After rain halted over 23 overs of play in Dambulla on Wednesday, the two sets of players, officials, and fans will be hoping for an entire innings of ODI cricket in Pallekele on Sunday. And, following a drawn T20I series, it would be ideal to see 50 overs each side in this second ODI, which, if won by the tourists, would set up a decider in the third and final ODI. Sri Lanka demonstrated their understanding of local conditions in the first match of the series, with two batters making centuries, and New Zealand will have to learn quickly ahead of this game - easier said than done given that three of their XI on Wednesday were making their ODI debuts.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 2nd Match, ODI Match

Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Date & Time: 17th November 2024 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Will Young, Tim Robinson, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay (wk), Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Charith Asalanka – Charith Asalanka has contributed with 380 runs in his last ten ODIs and nine wickets in his last nine ODIs.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Will Young – He is a top-order, right-handed batter. In the recently played 5 matches, this player has scored 48, 26, 89, 105 and 33 runs.
• Jacob Duffy – This player is a right-arm fast-medium bowler and in the recently played 3 matches, he has taken 5 wickets at an average of 18.6. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka(C), Will Young, Will Young, Michael Bracewell(VC), Mitchell Santner, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Jacob Duffy, Dilshan Madushanka

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis(C), Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Tim Robinson, Will Young, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(VC), Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Jacob Duffy, Dilshan Madushanka

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka

Vice-captain – Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka crossed the line comfortably on Wednesday, but despite their large batting total, they appeared to be under pressure when the New Zealand openers piled on the runs early. We expect the Black Caps to compete again in this match, but Sri Lanka will win due to their superior experience. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

Sri Lanka started the three-match home ODI series against New Zealand powerfully before a rain interruption in the last over of the first innings.  

After Sri Lanka chose to bat first, the hosts scored 324/5 in 49.2 overs before rain interrupted the game. While the opener Avishka Fernando scored 100 runs off 115 balls with the help of nine fours and two sixes, the wicketkeeper-batter 143 runs off 128 balls with the help of 17 fours and two sixes. 

Also, the skipper Charith Asalanka played a powerful cameo late as he scored 40 off 28 balls (three fours and two sixes) and was out just before the rain interruption. 

Here are some key stats of the innings

Sri Lankan opener Avishka Fernando and the no.3 batter Kusal Mendis set up a 206-run partnership for the second wicket.

• It was Sri Lanka’s second ODI double-century partnership as well as the highest ODI partnership for any wicket against New Zealand. Their previous record was a 201-run partnership for the opening wicket between Sanath Jayasuriya and Upul Tharanga at Napier in 2006. 

• It was Sri Lanka’s fourth 200+ ODI partnership for the second wicket and third-highest ODI partnership for the second wicket.

• It was Sri Lanka’s sixth-highest ODI partnership for any wicket at home. 

Kusal Mendis scored 143 runs.

• It was the highest individual ODI score by a wicketkeeper-batter against New Zealand. The previous record was 142 by the Zimbabwean Dave Houghton in the 1987 Hyderabad ODI during the ICC Cricket World Cup 1987.

• It was the highest individual ODI score by a Sri Lankan batter against New Zealand. The previous record was 140 runs by two Lankan batters, Sanath Jayasuriya (at Bloemfontein in 1994) and Thisara Perera (at Mount Maunganui in 2019).

• It was the second-highest individual ODI score by a Sri Lankan wicketkeeper. The record is 169 runs by Kumar Sangakkara against South Africa in the 2013 Colombo (RPS) ODI.  
  

• It was the third-highest individual ODI score by a Sri Lankan non-opener. 
  

• It was the fifth-highest individual ODI score by a Sri Lankan batter at home.
  

Sri Lanka scored 324/5 in 49.2 overs.

• It was the second time for Sri Lanka to score a 300+ total against New Zealand, as it was the second-highest ODI total for Sri Lanka against New Zealand. The record is 326 all out in 49 overs during the 2019 Mount Maunganui ODI.

SL vs NZ Match Preview

We're in the first of three ODIs between Sri Lanka and New Zealand. The two teams split the T20 series, with New Zealand mounting a strong comeback in their second game before losing the first. The Kiwis have had a successful tour of the subcontinent and will look to build on that momentum as the Sri Lankans attempt to hold the fort. 

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 1st Match, ODI Match

Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla

Date & Time: 13th November 2024 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Jacob Duffy, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Pathum Nissanka – Pathum Nissanka has been one of Sri Lanka's top-performing ODI batters in 2024, amassing 654 runs in 10 matches at an impressive average of 72.7.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Will Young – Will Young recently played very well in India. This will be his first ODI match in Sri Lanka. He is good at playing spin bowlers, as he showed in Bangladesh.
• Lockie Ferguson – Ferguson took a hat-trick in the second T20I to help the tourists defend 108. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Glenn Phillips(VC), Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga(C), Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka(VC), Glenn Phillips, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner(C), Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

New Zealand is struggling in Sri Lanka. The conditions are unsuitable for them, and their batsmen were struggling on these turning tracks. They have no key players and must get the most out of their top and middle lineup. The Sri Lankans have been very consistent at home in the last 12 months, and they have a strong spin attack. We anticipate a close game, but the hosts hold the advantage. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

SL vs NZ Match Preview

This game will be a fascinating battle between the Black Caps' batting depth and the spin abilities of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. With two new captains in charge, both will have the opportunity to put their leadership skills to the test in a game that must be won. A T20I series draw or win is on the line. Both teams are looking to restart after heartbreaking T20 World Cup campaigns. Each appears to be assembling their new-look teams with a few tweaks, but have kept a core group of successful T20 players.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 2nd Match, T20I Match

Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla

Date & Time: 10th November 2024 at 07:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Tim Robinson, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Josh Clarkson, Mitchell Santner (C), Nathan Smith, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka (C), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dinesh Chandimal (WK), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Dinesh Chandimal – Dinesh Chandimal's wicketkeeping provides solidity behind the stumps, but equally, he will be a calm presence for Sri Lanka with the bat.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Tim Robinson – Tim Robinson may be given a chance to open the batting in a bid to gain more T20 experience internationally.
• Mitchell Santner – Mitchell Santner will be tested to the fullest in a game which will be series defining. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Glenn Phillips(VC), Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga(C), Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka(VC), Glenn Phillips, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner(C), Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka has two of the world's best limited-overs spinners, Hasaranga and Theekshana. They will face a daunting task when they use the middle overs against a long and powerful New Zealand batting lineup. Mark Chapman and Glenn Phillips will return to familiar surroundings after stints at the Dambulla Sixers and Colombo Strikers before this year. There will be two important batters to watch. New Zealand will strive for a team performance, which has traditionally been their strength. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

After securing three consecutive limited-overs series wins, Charith Asalanka-led Sri Lankan side is brewing up with a lot of confidence. The battle-hardened outfit has slowly become a force to reckon with in recent times. The skipper Asalanka now has some serious ambitions for his side and expects them to be as good as they were prior to 2014. 

The cricket-driven island nation was in the midst of its golden run between 2007-2014. During this period, Sri Lanka was often considered a tough opposition, especially in major ICC events where they managed to make no fewer than five World Cup final appearances (three T20Is and two ODIs) before going on to win their maiden T20 World Cup title in 2014. 

But the wheels had fallen off following the retirement of legends like Jayawardene and Sangakkara in 2014-15 and as a result, the team slipped into a hole and started witnessing a downward trajectory, especially in the white-ball format. However, with some sensational series wins against India, New Zealand, and West Indies, Asalanka hopes to revive the legacy of the vintage Lankan squad and replicate some of the old magic that the team possessed back in the day.

What does Asalanka aspire to do for Sri Lankan cricket?

As a first step, the Lankan skipper aims to propel his side up in the ICC Rankings and cement their place in the top three. In T20I cricket, his side is dismally ranked at number eight while in ODI, the Lankan side is up at the sixth position but still faces an inevitable exclusion from the upcoming Champions Trophy. Being the skipper of the Lankan side in the ODI and T20I formats, Sri Lanka have to compete fiercely on all fronts and continuously strive for positive progress. 

"Our goal is to climb to the top three in the rankings. If we've consistently been winning, when we go to the ICC tournaments, we won't get exposed. We'd have played good teams and won, like we used to do in 2014 and before, when we used to get to the semi-finals easily. We are hoping to come back to that level. It's important to play really well from tour to tour."

Their upcoming challenge against the Black Caps

It is worth mentioning that Sri Lanka's unprecedented resurgence in international cricket has largely been at home, most notably on turning wickets. This outfit is yet to be tested in alien conditions outside the Indian subcontinent. To build upon their dominating run, the Sri Lankan team will need to win matches consistently in away conditions.

But on the back of some emphatic series wins at home in recent times, one can safely conclude that the Asalanka-led Sri Lanka side have taken a step in the right direction.  They will now be up against the Black Caps for a five-match white-ball series who are coming off on the back of a historic 3-0 Test series sweep against India in their own backyard. 

See also: BCCI mulling to take strict action against Gautam Gambhir following an annihilating series whitewash

SL vs NZ Match Preview

Sri Lanka will look to keep their winning streak going when they face New Zealand in the first T20I of the series on Saturday at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla. Sri Lanka has performed admirably in all formats under new coach Sanath Jayasuriya. Captain Charith Asalanka is hoping that his team can deliver a clinical performance with both bat and ball in this match. New Zealand, on the other hand, will make their return to the T20 format after nearly five months away. Interim captain of the team Mitchell Santner will be hoping the team can adjust to the conditions and put on a good show against the Islanders.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 1st Match, T20I Match

Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla

Date & Time: 09th November 2024 at 07:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: UP Warriorz trade out Danni Wyatt-Hodge to.......

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (captain), Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Mitchell Hay, Mark Chapman, Dean Foxcroft, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi, Zak Foulkes

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, Mahesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dunith Wellalage

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Kusal Mendis – Kusal Mendis will be one of their reliable batters who can adjust to the needs of the game.
• Nuwan Thushara – Nuwan Thushara will be most effective with the new ball and Pathirana is more of a death-overs specialist.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Mark Chapman – Mark Chapman impressed with a man-of-the-match performance, notching up his first hundred against India in the second innings and seeing off the chase in the fourth match.
• Mitchell Santner – He would have learned a lot about captaincy after playing under MS Dhoni’s leadership in the Indian Premier League. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka(VC), Pathum Nissanka, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay, Mitchell Santner(C), Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lockie Ferguson, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Glenn Phillips(VC), Mitchell Hay, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga(C), Lockie Ferguson, Mahesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

Based on their current form, hosts Sri Lanka will be favorites to defeat New Zealand. With Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga in excellent form this year, the team management will be hoping for a strong performance in this home fixture. Considering the team combination, New Zealand is expected to win this match.

The Africa Cricket Association (ACA), the continental body for cricket in Africa is gearing up to revive perhaps the most dynamic rivalries of world cricket. The Afro-Asia Cup is all set to return to the grand scheme of things for the first time since its final edition which took place in India in 2007. The tournament will comprise a series of white-ball matches that will be played between the Africa Playing Xl and Asia Playing Xl. Players based on merit will be chosen from major countries in Africa and Asia. However, a major chunk of talent will originate from India, Pakistan, and South Africa. 

ACA conducted its AGM meeting on Sunday where they formed a six-person committee to bring about institutional reforms and drive the number of opportunities for the players from the continent. One of the key goals of this organization is to establish ties with the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and discuss initiatives such as the Afro-Asia Cup which can open up a wide array of cross-continental cricket opportunities for the wider region. 

A look into the tournament's past

The inaugural edition of the Afro-Asia Cup was held way back in 2005 in South Africa and later in 2007 in India. The third edition of the tournament was supposed to take place in Kenya in 2009 but the plan never materialized. The 2005 Asia squad was led by Inzamam-ul-Haq whereas Shaun Pollock took charge of the Africa squad. That squad featured some of the big names in world cricket at that time including but not limited to AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Steve Tikolo, and Mark Boucher. Asia Xl on the other hand also featured some major heavyweights including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara, Virender Sehwag, Anil Kumble, Shoaib Akhtar, and Shahid Afridi.

At that time, both India and Pakistan shared friendly geopolitical relations which in turn had a positive impact on the cricketing rivalries between the two nations. But all of that changed when the infamous 2008 terror attacks took place in Mumbai. Since that tragic incident, both nations have been at odds with each other and have not engaged in participating in bilateral series. 

But if the third edition of the Afor-Asia Cup is to take place, then we may see the Indian and Pakistani players in action alongside each other. Considering the strained political ties between the two countries, such a sight will be quite a spectacle for the fans and the media houses to cherish.

How will the Afro-Asia Cup positively impact Zimbabwe cricket 

Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, comments that apart from providing much-needed entertainment to the cricket fans, the tournament would also bring in a lot of revenue which the country so desperately requires. Mukuhlani, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair revealed that he is currently having conversations with his Asian counterparts (ACC) on getting this tournament back to its glory days. 

Mukuhlani makes it clear that the players from his country will participate in the tournament along with their South African neighbors. He believes that the presence of Zimbabwean and South African players adds a layer of versatility to the tournament which then opens up new doors for the young and upcoming cricketers to hone new skills and advance their level of cricket.  

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