SL vs ZIM Match Preview
The spinners played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's clinical bowling performance, restricting the visitors to a mere 208 runs. Maheesh Theekshana stood out among the bowlers, taking 4 wickets for just 31 runs. Jeffrey Vandersay also contributed with 2 wickets, maintaining pressure on the opposition with his accurate line and length.
Dilshan Madushanka and Dushmantha Chameera impressed with their bowling at the start of the innings, and the team will be hoping for a similar display from them in the upcoming match. However, there is room for improvement in the batting department.
Avishka Fernando has struggled in the opening position, while Kusal Mendis has been unable to convert his promising starts into big scores. On the other hand, the middle order has performed relatively better.
Charith Asalanka showcased his skills by scoring a century in the rain-affected first ODI, while Janith Liyanage played a commendable innings of 95 runs despite losing wickets at the other end. The batting lineup possesses considerable firepower with the likes of Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dasun Shanaka, and Sahan Arachchige. However, it is crucial for at least one of them to stay at the crease until the death overs.
Skipper Craig Ervine showcased his exceptional batting skills by scoring an impressive 82 runs on a challenging pitch. Once again, he will be the pivotal player for Zimbabwe. Joylord Gumbie, Milton Shumba, and Ryan Burl all displayed promising starts and will aim to make a significant impact in this match.
However, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe and Sikandar Raza encountered difficulties during their innings. On the other hand, Richard Ngarava delivered a brilliant bowling performance, claiming 5 wickets for a mere 32 runs in his 10-over spell. He will lead the pace attack alongside Blessing Muzarabani and Faraz Akram.
The spin department comprises of Raza, Tapiwa Mufudza, and Ryan Burl.
Weather Report
The weather will remain warm and humid and there will be drizzling throughout the day.
Pitch Report
The pitch at the R. Premadasa Stadium isn’t the easiest to bat on. The new ball does seam around a bit and as the conditions are a bit overcast, the seamers can expect plenty of swing. The batsmen will need to play with patience.
The spinners are also likely to get assistance once the ball gets softer and older. Anything over 250 will be challenging to chase on this ground.
Notable stats
Samarwickrama: Dependable Off Late
Sadeera Samarawickrama has been a consistent performer for Sri Lanka over the last few months. In his past 10 outings, Samarawickrama has scored 395 runs at an average of 49.38 and a strike rate of 103.94.
Team News
There are no updates regarding injuries from either side.
SL vs ZIM Probable 11
SL Playing 11
- Avishka Fernando
- Kusal Mendis (C)
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Dasun Shanaka
- Charith Asalanka
- Janith Liyanage
- Sahan Arachchige
- Dushamantha Chameera
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Jeffrey Vandersay
ZIM Playing 11
- Tinashe Kamunhukamwe
- Joylord Gumbie (Wk)
- Craig Ervine (C)
- Sikandar Raza
- Milton Shumba
- Ryan Burl
- Clive Madande
- Faraz Akram
- Richard Ngrava
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Tapiwa Mufudza
Dream11 Prediction
We are backing Sri Lanka to win this match. They have a good head-to-head record against Zimbabwe, especially at home, and that should give the team plenty of confidence as they head into this contest. Zimbabwe has some brilliant players but will find it difficult to perform as a unit.
Top Picks
Richard Ngarava: Ngarava has picked up 16 wickets in his last 8 outings at a bowling strike rate of 23.93. His economy rate is pretty good too at 4.72 runs per over.
Maheesh Theekshana: Theekshana ended 2023 as his team’s leading wicket-taker of the year. He picked up 37 wickets in 23 matches at an average of 24.94.
Charith Asalanka: Asalanka scored a century in the first ODI. He is a quality all-rounder who has scored 1661 runs in ODIs at an average of 40.51 and can also pick up wickets at key moments.
SL vs ZIM Dream11 Team 1
Keeper: K Mendis, S Samarrwickrama
Batters: C Ervine (VC), R Burl, C Asalanka
All-rounders: S Raza, J Liyange
Bowlers: D Madushanka, R Ngarava, M Theekshana (C), J Vandersay
