Related Articles
The first T20I of the three-match series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand is set to be a thrilling encounter. The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the iconic Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla. Both teams are looking to start the series on a positive note. Let’s dive into the match details, team previews, pitch report, weather conditions, and the predicted winner.
Table of content
Match Details
- Match: SL vs NZ, 1st T20I, New Zealand tour of Sri Lanka, 2024
- Date: Saturday, November 09, 2024
- Time: 7:00 PM (Local Time)
- Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
Team Previews
Sri Lanka Preview
The Lankan Lions are coming into this series with confidence after a successful T20 series win against the West Indies. The team has retained their squad, which indicates their trust in the players’ current form. The batting lineup looks solid with the likes of Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka, who can anchor the innings. The bowling department, led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana, is expected to exploit the home conditions.
Key Players:
- Kusal Mendis: A dependable wicketkeeper-batter who can play explosive innings at the top.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: One of the most dangerous leg spinners in the T20 format, capable of taking wickets at crucial moments.
- Matheesha Pathirana: Known for his slinging action and ability to bowl yorkers, he can be a game-changer in the death overs.
Sri Lanka Squad:
Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Perera, Dinesh Chandimal, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Asitha Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Jeffrey Vandersay, Kamindu Mendis, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Maheesh Theekshana
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand are stepping back into T20 action after a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. With a mix of experience and fresh faces, the Kiwis are looking to regain their form. The squad is relatively inexperienced, but with seasoned players like Mitchell Santner, who will lead the team, and Lockie Ferguson’s express pace, New Zealand will be eager to challenge the hosts.
Key Players:
- Mitchell Santner: The all-rounder brings experience and will be leading the side. His spin bowling will be crucial on the subcontinental pitches.
- Glenn Phillips: Known for his explosive batting, he can turn the game around in the middle overs.
- Lockie Ferguson: His pace and ability to bowl at over 140 kmph can trouble the Sri Lankan batters.
New Zealand Squad:
Mitch Hay (wk), Mitchell Santner (c), Tim Robinson, Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes, Nathan Smith, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Dean Foxcroft
Pitch Report
The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium traditionally offers a balanced pitch with a slight advantage to spinners. The surface tends to slow down as the game progresses, making batting more challenging in the second innings. The first innings average score here is around 160-170 in T20s. Spinners from both teams are expected to have a significant impact.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 160-175
- Chasing Record: Teams batting second have struggled on this pitch, so winning the toss and opting to bat first might be the ideal strategy.
Weather Report
The weather in Dambulla on match day is expected to be clear with no chances of rain. The temperature will hover around 28-30°C, with humidity at approximately 70%. Wind speed is expected to be around 12 km/h, which could assist the bowlers with swing early on.
- Temperature: 28-30°C
- Humidity: 70%
- Rain Probability: 0%
Head-to-Head Stats
- Total Matches Played: 23
- Sri Lanka Won: 9
- New Zealand Won: 13
- No Result: 1
New Zealand holds a slight edge over Sri Lanka in their T20I head-to-head record, but playing in subcontinental conditions could favor the hosts.
Score Prediction
- If Sri Lanka Bat First: 175+
- If New Zealand Bat First: 156+
Winning Chances
- Sri Lanka: 55%
- New Zealand: 45%
Considering the home advantage and recent form, Sri Lanka seems to have the upper hand in this match. However, New Zealand’s fighting spirit cannot be underestimated.
Who Will Win Today’s Match?
Predicted Winner: Sri Lanka Will Win
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: Fancode (India), Spark Sport (New Zealand)
- Television Broadcast: SLRC Channel Eye (Sri Lanka), Sky Sports NZ (New Zealand)
Disclaimer: The predictions provided are for entertainment purposes only. These are based on team analysis, current form, and conditions. We do not promote or support any form of betting or gambling. Please follow official channels for accurate match updates.
