3 things Sri Lanka need to do right to beat India in 1st T20I
The stage is set for a new chapter in the India-Sri Lanka T20I rivalry. While India basks in the afterglow of their T20 World Cup triumph, Sri Lanka are looking to rebuild under new captain Charith Asalanka, after a disappointing campaign.
They are set to host India in a limited-overs series, featuring 3 T20Is and as many ODIs. The first of the three T20Is will be played on Saturday, July 27, in Pallekele.
With the retirements of Indian stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, and Sri Lanka's decision to move on from Angelo Mathews, the stage is set for a fascinating battle between two sides in transition.
Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, India will look to build on their success. However, the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, arguably the best bowler in the world, adds a layer of complexity to their campaign.
Sri Lanka, under interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, are seeking to rebuild their T20I fortunes. The appointment of Charith Asalanka as captain is a bold move, and his leadership will be crucial. The islanders have faced a series of setbacks with injuries to key players, making their task even more challenging.
For the hosts to pull off an upset in the first T20I, they will need to execute their plans to perfection. Here are three key areas where they must excel.
3 things Sri Lanka need to do right to beat India in 1st T20I
#3 Exploit India's Inexperience at the top order
India's top order is undergoing a transition phase with the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. While Shubman Gill has been touted as a future star, he hasn't quite cemented his place at the top in T20Is.
The Sri Lankan bowlers, especially Matheesha Pathirana, who has been in exceptional form in the LPL (Lanka Premier League), need to exploit this inexperience. Tight lines and early wickets can put immense pressure on the inexperienced Indian batting lineup.
The absence of experienced campaigners at the top creates an opportunity for the hosts. By dismissing the Indian openers quickly, they can put their opponents on the back foot and disrupt their momentum.
#2 Counter-attack and use spin effectively at the same time
The Pallekele pitch is expected to assist spin. With India likely to play three spinners, Sri Lanka's ability to counter-attack against them will be crucial. Players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will need to be at their best. Moreover, the Sri Lankan batters must show patience and discipline against the Indian spinners to build partnerships and set a platform for the big hitters.
Hasaranga, Theekshana, and potentially Ramesh Mendis form a formidable spin trio. They must bowl tight lengths, vary their pace, and exploit the conditions to their advantage. India's middle order, which is likely to feature a mix of young and inexperienced players, can be vulnerable against quality spin bowling.
#3 Win the toss and bat first
The Pallekele pitch has shown a tendency to assist spin, and with India likely to deploy three spinners, batting first could allow Aslanaka and Co. to capitalize on a potentially better batting surface. Establishing a strong platform early on would be crucial in countering India's formidable spin attack. Additionally, chasing a target under lights in Pallekele can often be challenging, making batting first a strategic advantage.
Even if the dew factor could potentially come in during the second innings, winning the toss and setting a target could be a worthy ploy for the hosts if they are to beat India and gain early momentum in the series.