Predicting New Zealand’s playing XI for their first T20I against Sri Lanka

New Zealand and Sri Lanka will be taking on each other in a T20I series of three matches. The first of the three T20Is is set to take place at the Bay Oval. The two teams were up against each other in a T20I series just a month ago in Sri Lanka. The 2-match series saw both the teams sharing the trophy. Both the teams would be hoping to win the series this time around.

Being the home side, New Zealand might start as a favourite. They will be boosted with the return of Rachin Ravindra and Matt Henry. But Sri Lanka cannot be taken lightly as they’ve performed well under the captain-coach duo of Sanath Jayasuriya and Charith Asalanka. Hence, NZ will have to bring their A-game. If the pitch assists spinners, it could be anyone’s game. 

Also read:- Predicting Sri Lanka’s playing XI for their first T20I against New Zealand

Here’s the predicted playing XI of New Zealand for the first T20I against Sri Lanka –

Top Order – Tim Robinson, Will Young, and Mark Chapman 

New Zealand’s top order has the likes of Tim Robinson, Will Young, and Mark Chapman. The opening duo hasn’t batted a lot together. But it might be an opportunity for Robinson to show what he has got. Young has been in and out of the side. He has something to prove himself. Mark Chapman might continue to bat at number 3. At the moment, he is the best T20I batter for the home side. 

Middle Order – Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, and Mitch Hay (WK) 

The middle order of South Africa is robust. They have Rachin Ravindra at number 4 who will be returning to the T20I side in months. He can provide an option of spin bowling as well. Glenn Phillips might bat at number 5. He is an aggressive batter and can take down the bowlers well. Mitch Hay might have a good opportunity to show what he has got. He will be the WK batter of the side at number 6.

Lower Middle Order – Mitchell Santner (C) and Michael Bracewell 

In the lower middle order, NZ could continue to have the spin All-rounder duo of Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell. Santner has been the new Kiwi skipper and might need some time to fit into the role. He can win matches with his performances. Michael Bracewell might be backed to be NZ’s number 8. He can win matches both as a batter and as a bowler.

Bowlers – Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, and Zakary Foulkes 

The New Zealand bowling attack will have the likes of Matt Henry, Zakary Foulkes, and Ish Sodhi. Henry and Foulkes are likely to operate with the new ball and return later to bowl at the death. Sodhi might be the main spinner of NZ. His leg spin with some handy batting can win matches for the home side. If the surface is pace-friendly, NZ might be tempted to bring in someone like Jacob Duffy.

New Zealand’s playing XI for the first T20I against Sri Lanka –

Tim Robinson

Will Young

Mark Chapman

Rachin Ravindra

Glenn Phillips

Mitch Hay (WK)

Mitchell Santner (C)

Michael Bracewell

Matt Henry

Ish Sodhi

Zakary Foulkes 

Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.