The ODI series between Sri Lanka and West Indies in October 2024 promises to be an exciting contest as both teams look to build momentum following their recent T20 encounters. The series will feature three ODIs, taking place at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on October 20, 23, and 26.
Both teams’ form and recent performance
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka enters the ODI series with a boost in confidence after winning the T20I series against West Indies 2-1. Under the captaincy of Charith Asalanka, the team has demonstrated resilience and skill, particularly in the second T20I where they won by 73 runs. Key players like Kusal Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga are expected to play pivotal roles in the ODI format, contributing both with bat and ball.
West Indies
The West Indies team, led by Shai Hope, will be looking to bounce back after their T20 series defeat. They have made some strategic changes to their squad, emphasizing a stronger spin attack which could be crucial on the turning tracks of Sri Lanka. With experienced players like Evin Lewis and Alzarri Joseph in the lineup, they will aim to regain their footing in the ODI series.
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Sri Lanka’s top-choice playing XI for the ODI series against West Indies
- Kusal Mendis
- Role: Opening Batter
- Position: Top Order
- Strengths: Kusal is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly. His experience in international cricket allows him to accelerate the innings and put pressure on bowlers, making him a key player at the top of the order.
- Pathum Nissanka
- Role: Opening Batter
- Position: Top Order
- Strengths: Nissanka has a solid technique and is capable of anchoring the innings. His ability to play both defensively and aggressively makes him versatile, providing a strong foundation for the team.
- Charith Asalanka (C)
- Role: Middle Order Batter
- Position: No. 3
- Strengths: Asalanka combines aggressive batting with leadership skills. His ability to handle pressure situations and play impactful innings makes him crucial in stabilizing the middle order.
- Kamindu Mendis
- Role: All-rounder
- Position: No. 4
- Strengths: A versatile all-rounder, Kamindu can contribute significantly with both bat and ball. His innovative batting techniques can unsettle bowlers, while his off-spin provides valuable options in the bowling department.
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
- Position: Middle Order
- Strengths: Samarawickrama is known for his aggressive batting style and sharp wicketkeeping skills. He can accelerate scoring in the middle overs and is effective in finishing games.
- Angelo Mathews
- Role: All-rounder
- Position: Lower Middle Order
- Strengths: Mathews brings vast experience and stability to the team. His dependable batting and handy medium pace bowling make him a key figure, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Role: All-rounder
- Position: Bowling All-rounder
- Strengths: Hasaranga is a dynamic player known for his leg-spin bowling and explosive batting capabilities. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments and contribute runs down the order makes him invaluable.
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Role: Bowler
- Position: Spin Bowler
- Strengths: Theekshana is recognized for his unique bowling style and effectiveness on turning tracks. His variations can confuse batsmen, making him a key asset in the spin department.
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Role: Bowler
- Position: Fast Bowler
- Strengths: Madushanka is known for his pace and ability to swing the ball. His consistent line and length make him a reliable option in the fast-bowling attack.
- Asitha Fernando
- Role: Bowler
- Position: Fast Bowler
- Strengths: Fernando generates good pace and bounce, making him a dangerous bowler during power plays. His aggressive style can unsettle batsmen early on.
- Dunith Wellalage
- Role: Bowler
- Position: Spin Bowler
- Strengths: Wellalage’s left-arm spin adds variety to the bowling lineup. He has shown promise with his ability to take wickets while maintaining an economical rate.