Sri Lanka is set to face Australia in the opening ODI of their two-match series at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, February 12th.
Match Preview:
Australia enters the ODI series riding high on confidence after a commanding victory in the recently concluded two-match Test series. The Aussies showcased their dominance, winning the first Test by 9 wickets, courtesy of centuries from Steve Smith and Alex Carey.
In the second Test, they secured an innings-and-242-run victory, highlighted by Usman Khawaja’s double century and another ton from Smith. Matthew Kuhnemann was the standout bowler, claiming 16 wickets across both Tests, bolstering Australia’s hopes ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, especially with spin-friendly conditions expected.
On the flip side, Sri Lanka is on an impressive 10-match winning streak and has claimed victory in their last six bilateral series at home. They have the momentum and home advantage to challenge the Aussies and potentially disrupt their preparations for the Champions Trophy. However, Sri Lanka has made a notable squad change, excluding seam-bowling all-rounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe for this ODI series.
These matches serve as crucial opportunities for both teams but especially for Australia to fine-tune their strategies and finalize their best combinations before the global tournament.
Probable Playing XI:
Sri Lanka:
Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (C), Nuwanidu Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Janith Liyanage, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga
Australia:
Josh Inglis (wk), Travis Head, Steve Smith (C), Marnus Labuschagne, Cooper Connolly, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson
Weather and pitch report:
The forecast predicts mostly cloudy conditions with temperatures ranging between 33°C and 25°C. There is only a 3% chance of rain, suggesting minimal weather disruptions.
The pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium has traditionally favored spin bowlers, becoming more challenging for batters as the game progresses. As the surface deteriorates, it tends to produce variable bounce and sharp turns, with visible cracks adding to the unpredictability. Shot-making can become difficult in the latter stages, testing the technique and adaptability of the batters.
And do you know? out of 65 ODIs played at this venue, teams batting second have won 26 matches. Considering the pitch’s behavior, the captain winning the toss is likely to opt for batting first to capitalize on the relatively easier batting conditions early on.
Head-to-head record:
Sri Lanka and Australia have faced each other in a total of 104 ODI matches. Out of these, Australia has emerged victorious in 64 encounters, showcasing their historical dominance. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, has secured 36 wins against the Aussies. Additionally, four matches have ended with no result, while none of the games have concluded in a tie.
Prediction:
Given how Australia dominated the Test series, they will start the ODI series as favourites and are expected to win the 1st ODI of the series.
Where to watch:
Pakistan: Tapmad
India: SonyLiv App and website
Others: CricHD
