Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 1st T20I: Match Prediction

Preview

In this article, we will be analyzing the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Match Prediction for the 1st T20I. In a highly anticipated showdown, the Sri Lankan cricket team are gearing up to face Afghanistan in the first T20I of a three-match series at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium this Saturday.

Sri Lanka, known for their prowess in white-ball cricket, will enter the series as the clear favourites against Afghanistan. With newly-appointed skipper Wanindu Hasaranga at the helm, the home team are eager to dominate the proceedings in this T20I series. Having faced a recent whitewash in the ODI series, Afghanistan entered the T20I series with a bit of a confidence dip. Captain Ibrahim Zadran is hopeful for a change in fortunes as they aim to bounce back in this three-match series.

The history between these two teams in T20I cricket has seen them clash five times, with Sri Lanka holding a slight edge with three wins compared to Afghanistan’s two victories.

Match Details

Particulars	Match	Venue	Date & Time	Live Broadcast and Streaming Details
Details	Afghanistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 1st T20I	Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla	Saturday, February 17, 7:00 PM (IST)	Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV app

Pitch Report

The clash between bat and ball at Dambulla promises to be captivating, given the anticipated clear skies and a gentle breeze in the weather forecast. Winning the toss becomes crucial as both teams would prefer to bowl first, aiming to restrict the opposition to under 165 runs, considering the average first innings score at this venue. Additionally, batting is anticipated to be more favourable in the second innings due to the expected dew, adding an extra element to the game.

Head-to-Head Record

Matches Played	Sri Lanka won	Afghanistan won	NR
5	3	2	0

Probable Playing XIs:

Sri Lanka:

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dasun Shanaka, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga (C), Dhananjaya de Silva/Kusal Perera, Akila Dananjaya, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka

Afghanistan:

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Naveen ul Haq, Noor Ahmed, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik

Probable best batter of the match

Rahmanullah Gurbaz is one of the most sought-after players in T20 cricket, featuring prominently in franchise leagues worldwide. Although he couldn’t exhibit his prowess in the recently concluded ODI series, he will undoubtedly be eager to display his skills in the upcoming T20I series.

Probable best bowler of the match

Wanindu Hasaranga has showcased brilliant form since returning from his injury. With his array of variations, he has proven to be one of the most challenging bowlers for opposition batters worldwide. Eager to lead the team, Hasaranga looks set to deliver another standout performance.

Also Check: SL vs AFG Live Score, 1st T20I

Today’s Match Prediction: Team batting second to win the match

Scenario 1

Sri Lanka win the toss and bowl

Power Play score – 45-55

First Innings score- 160-170

Sri Lanka win the match

Scenario 2

Afghanistan win the toss and bowl

Power Play score – 40-50

First Innings score – 150-160

Afghanistan 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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