In this article we will be analyzing the SL vs AFG Match Prediction. The first ODI of the three-match series between Sri Lanka (SL) and Afghanistan (AFG) is set to be played on Friday, February 9, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. These two teams recently played a Test match for the first time. The Lankan Lions picked up a comprehensive 10-wicket win in Colombo. Afghanistan batters showed a much improved batting performance in the second innings of the Test and that should hold them in good stead heading into the ODIs. Also, their talented opener Ibrahim Zadran scored a brilliant century in the second innings after being dismissed for a duck in the first. Rahmat Shah, who is another reliable Afghan batter scored half-centuries in both innings.
The bowling department lacked experience and it showed on the field. However, they will back themselves to do well in the 50-over format, something that they have played in more often and also received decent success.
The Blue Tigers will be playing an ODI for the first time after their impressive campaign in the 50-over World Cup last year in India. They won four out of their nine matches and finished sixth out of the ten participating teams. They comprehensively defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their only meeting at the showpiece event.
Sri Lanka will be playing their second ODI series since their dismal World Cup campaign. They won just two out of their nine matches and finished ninth in the 10-team event. Last month, they defeated Zimbabwe 2-0 in a three-match series. Veterans Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal, who scored centuries in the Test match against Afghanistan, have not been included in the ODI squad.
Sadeera Samarawickrama, who was Sri Lanka’s highest run-getter in the ODI World Cup, has not been been great nick in recent times. The home fans will hope for him to come good against the Afghans. The bowling department looks quite settled with experienced bowlers being in the mix.
SL vs AFG Match Details
| Particulars | Match | Venue | Date & Time | Live Broadcast and Streaming Details |
| Details | Afghanistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 1st ODI | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele | Friday, February 9, 2:30 PM | Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV app |
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report and Conditions
The average first innings score at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in ODIs is 246. 14 games have been won by teams batting first, while 20 have been won by teams batting second. Meanwhile, two games have ended in no result. 314/6 is the highest score at this venue and it was made by Sri Lanka against Afghanistan in 2022. The captain who wins the toss could be inclined to bowl first to assess the nature of the pitch. Also, the fact that there could be dew in the second half of the match could make life difficult for the spinners.
Click Here: Live Score – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 1st ODI
SL vs AFG Head-to-Head Record in ODIs:
| Matches Played | Sri Lanka won | Afghanistan won | NR |
| 12 | 7 | 4 | 1 |
SL vs AFG Predicted Playing XI:
Sri Lanka:
Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (C/WK), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Sahan Arahchige, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka
Afghanistan:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmed, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran
Probable Top Performers
Probable Best Batter: Charith Asalanka
Charith Asalanka has a fine record in Pallekele. In eight innings, he has scored 351 runs at an average of 58.50 and a strike rate of 88.63. The southpaw has four fifties to his name from eight innings. Asalanka also likes playing against Afghanistan, as he averages just under 50. He is coming off an impressive century against Zimbabwe in the last game and will be high on confidence.
Probable Best Bowler: Fazalhaq Farooqi
Farooqi has been in good form in recent times. He bagged 17 wickets from the eight matches he played in the ongoing ILT20 2024. The left-arm seamer has the ability to swing the new ball at decent speeds. Sri Lankan batters have had problems in recent times against quality seam bowling and if Farooqi gets some help with the new ball, he can wreak havoc.
Today’s Match Prediction: Team batting second to win the match
Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
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