Fresh from their monumental win against Pakistan, India prepares to march onto the field for the third consecutive day at the Asia Cup 2023. Having made history with a convincing victory under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, they now gear up to face Sri Lanka in what promises to be a riveting contest.
Will fatigue be a concern?
A looming concern for the Indian contingent is the battle against fatigue. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul demonstrated commendable stamina, batting over 25 overs in humid conditions against Pakistan, only to field for another 32.
When quizzed about the gruelling schedule, Kohli, the former captain and the standout player against Pakistan, remarked, "I was pushing for runs, I am very happy for that but at one stage, I was thinking that I have a game tomorrow at 3 PM. Luckily, we are Test players, I personally have crossed 100 Tests and so I know how to come back and play again on the next day. It was hot out there, coming November I would be 35 and hence I need to take care of my body. I know, I will be recovering and playing again tomorrow (chuckles)."
Changes to the Playing XI?
Under Rohit Sharma's astute leadership, India vs Sri Lanka predicted XI might see a few adjustments, primarily based on player
fatigue. During their previous match, notable pacers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Hardik Pandya had a limited 5-over stint. Shardul Thakur bowled 4, while Kuldeep Yadav, the only one to exceed this quota, delivered 8 overs, clinching his first 5-wicket haul against Pakistan in ODI cricket. It seems probable that India will make only minor changes given the limited gameplay of several key players.
Sri Lanka: A team with determination
Despite grappling with injuries, Dasun Shanaka's resilient squad managed to edge past Bangladesh in the Super Fours opening fixture. Eyes will be on Sri Lankan spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage as they aim to dismantle the robust Indian batting line-up.
Ground report: Pitch and weather conditions
The India vs Sri Lanka weather condition report indicates potential rain interruptions, especially in the latter half. Unfortunately, no reserve days are allotted for this game. The pitch, located at the same venue, could offer some seam movement, particularly if the skies remain overcast. It's observed that the ball started to grip notably post the 20-over mark during the previous match, adding an element of intrigue to team strategies.
Sri Lanka Probable Playing XI
Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana
India Probable Playing XI
Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
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