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In the wake of a thrilling solitary test match, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are gearing up for an enthralling three-game ODI series, scheduled to commence on Friday, February 9, and extend until February 14. All the gripping encounters are set to unfold at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.
Sri Lanka squad overview
Leading the charge for Sri Lanka, Kusal Mendis assumes the captaincy, aiming to build on the positive momentum generated from their recent triumph in the lone Test encounter. Eager to launch the 50-over series on a victorious note, Sri Lanka’s recent series win against Zimbabwe in January underlines their form and readiness for the upcoming challenges.
The squad witnesses minimal changes, with Chamika Karunaratne stepping in for Dasun Shanaka. Returning post-dengue recovery, Pathum Nissanka is a notable inclusion for the three-game series. The absence of Shanaka, Jeffrey Vandersay and Nuwanidu Fernando is duly noted.
Afghanistan’s Team dynamics
On the opposing side, Hashmatullah Shahidi continues to lead the Afghanistan squad, embracing the captaincy role. However, the recovery journey of star spinner Rashid Khan from back surgery conducted late last year poses a challenge. Addressing this, the inclusion of experienced campaigner Qais Ahmad strengthens Afghanistan’s spin department.
This ODI series holds profound significance for Afghanistan, marking their return to the 50-over format since the ICC World Cup 2023. The team is determined to make a lasting impression, elevating its cricketing stature in the international arena.
The addition of reserve players from the CWC 2023, Gulbadin Naib and Fareed Ahmad, enhances the squad’s depth. Both players have rightfully earned their spots for this series. Noteworthy is the presence of Naveed Zadran, an impressive pacer who showcased his skills in the recent one-off Test against Sri Lanka. As an uncapped player, Zadran injects an element of unpredictability into the Afghan bowling attack, amplifying the anticipation and excitement surrounding the series.
Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka
Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka, 2024, ODI series Fixture, Venue and Timing:
- February 9: 1st ODI at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele 02:30 pm IST/ 09:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm local
- February 11: 2nd ODI at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele 02:30 pm IST/ 09:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm local
- February 14: 3rd ODI at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele 02:30 pm IST/ 09:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm local
Squads:
Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Sahan Arachchige, Akila Dananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Shevon Daniel
Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, Farid Ahmad
Broadcast and Live streaming details:
- India: Fancode, Sony Liv, Sony Sports 5
- Sri Lanka: Ten Cricket, Siyatha TV, Official You Tube Channel of SLC
- Afghanistan: Ariana TVN, RTA Sports
- UK: TNT Sports 4
