The iconic Wankhede Stadium is set ablaze with excitement as it is hosting a riveting ODI World Cup clash between India and Sri Lanka on November 2, Thursday. This is the same venue where India clinched their second ODI World Cup trophy, defeating Sri Lanka in 2011.
While Sri Lanka is on the prowl, seeking redemption from that fateful day, India remains focused on extending their unbeaten streak in the tournament. With six consecutive victories under their belt, the Men in Blue stand alone as the undefeated team of the ongoing World Cup. A triumph against Sri Lanka would not only extend India's invincible streak but also ensure their berth in the much-anticipated semifinals.
Right before the match unfolded, captains Rohit Sharma and Kusal Mendis, accompanied by their teammates, took the field and were seen wearing a special armbands to endorse the ‘One Day 4 Children’ campaign - a heartwarming joint venture between ICC and UNICEF. This initiative received immense support from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Sri Lanka Cricket as it serves a purpose for every underprivileged child.
As part of the ongoing #BeAChampion campaign, fans attending the match will experience a mesmerizing blue light spectacle during the second innings, each wearing synced LED wristbands, further emphasizing the campaign's message.
Talking about the match, Sri Lanka won the toss and put India to bat first. Even though Sri Lanka's journey in this World Cup has been bittersweet with just two wins from six fixtures, they're not ready to bow out without a fight. Their eyes are set on finishing within the top eight, a feat that would secure their participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
After the toss, Indian captain Rohit said,"Would have batted first, good pitch to bat on. Obviously some assistance to start with but under lights there will be good assistance for our pacers. Great honour, great moment to lead the team (first match as as Indian captain at home ground). It's important for us to no get carried away by the performances we put in. Same team as the last game."
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka skipper Kusal Mendis said, “We are going to bowl first. I think the pitch will be better for batting in the second part. Everyone did their best in the last few games. Hopefully they will continue to do the same today. One change, DDS is not playing, Hemantha is playing.”
India playing XI: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.
Sri Lanka playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis(w/c), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.
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