2017 ICC Champions Trophy: Pakistan v Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka’s Predicted XI
Nov 2, 2023 at 3:41 PM
Two of the least fancied sides of this event– Pakistan and Sri Lanka – will be up against each other to decide the last semi-finalist of this multination competition. Before the start of the tournament, it was assumed to be very unlikely that any of these two teams would make it to the semi-finals.
Their form and inconsistency spoke in favour of the assumption. However, things rapidly changed. Rankings were not relevant and the formidable names were thumped. The Men in Green stunned South Africa while Sri Lanka overpowered India’s might. Eventually, it is quite evident that at least one of these two sides is set to enter the semis.
Though, Monday will be only about finding out which team would be less fortunate one between the two overall.
Talking Points:
Kusal Mendis will be the man under the spotlight. The 22-year-old happens to be the best batsman Sri Lanka witnessed since the emergence (and mellowing down) of Dinesh Chandimal. The right-hander has impressed across the Test and ODI format and was finally in his true colours against India.
There will be a lot of hopes from him. The team needs a guy like him who can stay through the middle overs and build the innings. Such performance has a sort of cushion effect on the rest of the men who bat below him in the batting order.
The Lankan bowlers also need to be in top notch form. Pakistan’s batting hasn’t been up to its best and is very vulnerable to disciplined bowling performance. Veteran Lasith Malinga and the likes of Suranga Lakmal and Nuwan Pradeep must team up and produce a worthy show if the Lankans hope to dominate the opposition.
Recent form:
Sri Lanka has been blowing hot and cold in recent times. But, the win against India at the KIA Oval the other day will be a huge source of confidence for them. Top efforts from Danushka Gunathilaka and Kusal Mendis along with sensible showings from Kusal Perera and skipper Angelo Mathews saw the Lankan Lions chase down the challenging 322 runs target with ease and keep their hopes alive. The calm and composed attitude shown against India is a huge plus and gives a considerable benefit to them over Pakistan.
Win/Loss (Most recent first)
Sri Lanka: WLWLL
Pakistan: WLWWL
Predicted XI:
Kusal Perera has been ruled of the tournament due to a hamstring injury. This means they will be without one attacking option. A replacement for the left-hander has been flown in. Dhanajaya de Silva, the spin bowling all-rounder, will fill Perera’s place. He looks like a welcome change, given his ability to find handy breakthroughs apart from proven batting capabilities. Upul Tharanga will also be missing due to ban. The rest of the team is expected to be the same.
Here is the XI:
Niroshan Dickwella (WK), Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews (C.), Asela Gunaratne, Dhananjaya de Silva, Thisara Perera, Suranga Lakmal, Lasith Malinga, Nuwan Pradeep