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The upcoming three-match T20I series between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan is set to commence on Saturday. Mirroring the format of the preceding ODI series, all matches of the T20I series will be hosted at a single venue, the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla.
Sri Lanka have displayed dominance throughout the series thus far. Having secured victory in the solitary Test match, they continued their winning streak, claiming a whitewash in the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Despite the Afghans facing tough competition on this tour, they aim to reverse their fortunes in the shortest format.
Wanindu Hasaranga will lead the Sri Lankan side in the T20I series, while Ibrahim Zadran is set to captain the Afghan team. The stage is set for an exciting clash as both teams look to make their mark in the T20 format.
T20I stats and records at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium:
- Total matches: 3
- Matches won batting first: 1
- Matches won bowling first: 2
- Average 1st Inns scores: 133
- Average 2nd Inns scores: 124
- Highest total recorded: 141/3 (17 Overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs India Women
- Lowest total recorded: 104/5 (20 overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs India Women
- Highest score chased: 141/3 (17 Overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs India Women
- Lowest score defended: 138/6 (20 Overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs India Women
Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, T20I series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report:
The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium features a well-balanced pitch. Initially, the new ball offers a favourable bounce for batters allowing them to execute their shots with ease. As the game progresses, spinners are likely to become more influential, taking advantage of the surface’s potential for increased grip and turn.
Dambulla Weather Forecast:
The upcoming T20I encounter between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium may encounter precipitation issues, as there are anticipated chances of light rain that could impact the proceedings of the first match. The temperature is expected to hover around 29 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a humidity level of approximately 68%. The wind is projected to move at a speed of around 15 kmph, adding an additional variable to the playing conditions.
SL vs AFG, 1st T20I, Probable Playing XI:
Sri Lanka: Kusal Janith Perera, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka (vc), Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya De Silva, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c) Akila Dananjaya, Binura Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Naveen-ul-Haq, Qais Ahmed, Noor Ahmed, Fazalhaq Farooqi
