In the upcoming second T20I clash between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla, anticipation runs high following a tightly contested opener. Sri Lanka narrowly clinched victory in the first encounter, with the spotlight on their adept death bowling. Sri Lanka emerged as clear favourite against Afghanistan. Skipper Wanindu Hasaranga’s commanding fifty in the previous match bolstered their confidence.
However, Afghanistan, reeling from a recent ODI series whitewash and the first T20I loss, seek redemption under Captain Ibrahim Zadran’s leadership. The contest promises excitement as both teams gear up to rectify their strategies and execute game plans more effectively. Sri Lanka aims to maintain their winning momentum, while Afghanistan seeks a turnaround to restore morale.
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report
The upcoming 2nd T20I match between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan is set to unfold at the familiar Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla. The pitch promises an intriguing battle between bat and ball, with turn expected in the latter stages favouring spinners. Opting to bat first appears advantageous in the Sri Lankan conditions. Weather forecasts predict clear skies and a gentle breeze, setting the stage for another close contest.
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka:
The home team is anticipated to field their strongest lineup once again for the second encounter. Sri Lanka’s batting contingent relies heavily on the prowess of skipper Kusal Mendis, wicketkeeper-batter Sadeera Samarawickrama, dynamic Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, and all-rounder Dasun Shanaka to amass significant runs on the scoreboard. These key players hold the responsibility to drive Sri Lanka’s batting force against the visitors.
Predicted XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga(c), Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana.
Afghanistan:
The team management may opt for an unchanged squad, aiming for a stronger batting display in the forthcoming match. Their hopes rest significantly on captain Ibrahim Zadran, wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz, southpaw Najibullah Zadran, and the versatile all-rounder trio comprising Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Gulbadin Naib to lead the charge with the bat. Afghanistan bank on these key players to bolster their batting prowess.
Predicted XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz(wk), Ibrahim Zadran(c), Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq
Head-to-Head Records:
| Matches Played | Sri Lanka won | Afghanistan won | First Meeting | Last Meeting |
| 6 | 4 | 2 | 17 Mar 2016 | 17 Feb 2024 |
SL vs AFG, 2nd T20I Broadcast details:
| Date | Timing | Broadcast |
| Monday, February 19 | 07:00 PM (IST) | Sony Sports Network |