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

Sri Lanka will be taking on New Zealand in a series of three T20Is. Having been one of the best T20I sides in the last 6 months, SL will be high on confidence for the series. While New Zealand starts as the favourites to win the series, SL might stand a chance if bits come together to contribute to the team. Most of the Lankan players are in good form and can win matches on their own regularly.

The first T20I of the series is set to take place at the Bay Oval. Sri Lanka played NZ in an all-format series earlier this year where they swept NZ in Tests, won the ODI series, and drew the T20I series. It might’ve given the visiting side a lot of confidence ahead of the first T20I. They know the strengths and weaknesses of the opponents against whom they recently played. 

Here is the possible playing XI of Sri Lanka for the first T20I against New Zealand –

Top Order – Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Kusal Perera (WK)  

The Sri Lankan top order consists of some talented batters. Pathum Nissanka might continue to open the innings with Kusal Mendis. While the former acts like an anchor, the latter can go aggressive at the other end. If required, the duo can shift their roles. Kusal Perera might continue to bat at number 3. He will also keep wickets for the visiting side which makes it a very good top order.

Middle Order – Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (C ), and Bhanuka Rajapaksha 

Sri Lanka’s middle order has the likes of Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, and Bhanuka Rajapaksha. Kamindu can anchor the innings from his part at number 4. Charith has been leading SL as well as a skipper. Even as a batter, he has been firing well. If required, he can step up as a bowler. At number 6, Bhanuka will be one of the designated finishers. He is one of the best batters lower down the order.

Lower Middle Order – Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay 

SL will have two spinners in the lower middle order. Wanindu Hasaranga will be SL’s main All-rounders. Over the years, his batting abilities have gotten better. He is one of the best bowlers in the world. He can do well even on surfaces that do not assist bowlers. SL will have Jeffrey Vandersay as the supportive spinner. He can bat a bit as well lower down the order. 

Bowlers – Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, and Matheesha Pathirana 

Bowling is Sri Lanka’s biggest strength. Maheesh Theekshana will be one of the spinners in the bowling attack. He might operate in the end Powerplay and the middle overs. Sri Lanka’s pace duo are likely to be Nuwan Thushara and Matheesha Pathirana. Nuwan might operate with the new ball and at the death. Pathirana might operate in the second half of the innings.

Sri Lanka’s playing XI against New Zealand –

Pathum Nissanka

Kusal Mendis

Kusal Perera (WK)

Kamindu Mendis

Charith Asalanka (C)

Bhanuka Rajapaksha

Wanindu Hasaranga

Jeffrey Vandersay

Maheesh Theekshana

Matheesha Pathirana

Nuwan Pradeep 

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.