The eagerly awaited T20I series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand kicks off on Saturday, November 9, at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
The series opener marks the first of two T20I encounters, with both teams coming off recent successes and looking to build momentum as they face off in Sri Lankan conditions.
Score to settle for New Zealand
Sri Lanka enters the series with confidence, having recently triumphed over the West Indies in both T20I and ODI formats. Sri Lanka clinched both series 2-1, showcasing an impressive blend of power and consistency. New Zealand, meanwhile, arrives in high spirits as well, having dominated India in a recent three-match Test series with a 3-0 whitewash.
However, the Black Caps are well aware of the challenges in Sri Lanka, as their last visit to the island saw them lose a two-match Test series 2-0 in September.
Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024: New Zealand’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s top-choice playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand
1. Charith Asalanka (Captain)
As captain, Asalanka has evolved into one of Sri Lanka’s most valuable assets at the top of the order. Known for his aggressive stroke play and leadership, His ability to dominate bowlers early in the innings makes him the lynchpin of Sri Lanka’s batting strategy. Aslanka’s form and assertive approach could unsettle the New Zealand bowlers from the start.
2. Kusal Mendis (Opener)
Mendis, a right-handed opener with a reputation for boundary-laden starts, will be tasked with setting a high tempo for Sri Lanka’s innings. His ability to handle both pace and spin with equal ease can provide Sri Lanka with an early edge, giving them the platform to build a competitive total.
3. Pathum Nissanka (Opener)
At 26, Nissanka has proven himself as a key player in the T20 format. A technically sound batter, he brings the adaptability needed to either anchor or accelerate the innings. His skill in rotating strike and crafting partnerships will be invaluable in holding the top order together.
4. Kusal Perera (Middle-Order Batter)
Experience batter Perera brings experience and calm to the middle order. Known for his finishing ability, Perera can read game situations with precision, making him a reliable asset in the final overs. His shot selection and strategic play under pressure could be critical during the death overs.
5. Kamindu Mendis (Middle-Order Batter)
Kamindu’s fearlessness and power hitting make him a game-changer in the lineup. Known for his ability to turn matches with quickfire innings, his presence provides Sri Lanka with a boost in the middle overs, potentially tilting close games in their favour with his boundary-hitting skills.
6. Bhanuka Rajapaksa (Wicket-Keeper Batter)
Rajapaksa, a wicketkeeper-batter, brings balance to the team with his dual role. His calm demeanor and clutch batting in the middle order make him a valuable finisher, while his agility behind the stumps ensures tight fielding standards.
7. Wanindu Hasaranga (All-Rounder)
Hasaranga, one of Sri Lanka’s most versatile players, excels both with bat and ball. His aggressive middle-order batting complements his skill as a top-tier spinner, giving Sri Lanka flexibility in both departments. Hasaranga’s ability to deliver breakthroughs or stabilize the innings adds depth to the team.
8. Dunith Wellalage (Spin Bowler)
The 21-year-old left-arm spinner Wellalage has shown remarkable maturity and control, especially in pressure situations. His spin bowling will be crucial in curbing New Zealand’s aggressive batters during the middle overs, where he can effectively contain runs and take critical wickets.
9. Maheesh Theekshana (Spin Bowler)
Theekshana, as Sri Lanka’s lead spinner, offers a blend of guile and experience to the bowling attack. Known for his turn and variation, Theekshana will be a key figure on Sri Lanka’s home pitches, where he can exploit conditions to his advantage, particularly when taking on New Zealand’s middle order.
10. Nuwan Thushara (Fast Bowler)
Thushara’s swing and control make him a potent weapon in Sri Lanka’s pace arsenal. His experience with Sri Lankan conditions and ability to deliver early breakthroughs are expected to be pivotal in restricting New Zealand’s opening batters.
11. Matheesha Pathirana (Fast Bowler)
The 21-year-old fast bowler Pathirana has quickly earned a reputation for his speed and accuracy with yorkers. His lethal deliveries make him a go-to option in the powerplay and death overs, where his aggression can break partnerships and contain runs, making him a significant threat to New Zealand’s lineup.