The stage is set for a thrilling T20I series opener between Sri Lanka Women and South Africa Women at Willowmoore Park in Benoni. The encounter holds special significance, coming just months after Sri Lanka’s dramatic 3-run victory over South Africa at the Women’s T20 World Cup in February 2023.
Team Previews
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka Women have momentum on their side. They recently triumphed over England in a T20I series and displayed commendable grit in the Asian Games. This, coupled with their World Cup win against South Africa, makes them a potential threat. However, their batting consistency, particularly in the middle order, remains a question mark.
Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, led by the experienced Sugandika Kumari, Inoka Ranaweera, and Udeshika Prabodhani, will be crucial in restricting the South African batters. Captain Chamari Athapaththu’s opening partnership with Anushka Sanjeewani will set the tone for their batting performance.
South Africa Preview
South Africa Women, runners-up at the T20 World Cup, will be eager to redeem themselves on home turf. While they’ve shown resilience against strong opponents, their recent T20I series defeat against Australia necessitates a return to form.
Their batting unit, featuring Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits, and the explosive Marizanne Kapp, needs to find consistency. The bowling attack, spearheaded by Masabata Klaas and Nonkululeko Mlaba, will look to exploit the bowling-friendly conditions at Willowmoore Park.
Predicted Playing XI
Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI:
Chamari Athapaththu (c), Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera, Nilakshi de Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari, Udeshika Prabodhani, Inoshi Priyadharshani
South Africa Predicted Playing XI:
Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Anneke Bosch, Sune Luus, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka
South Africa Women T20 Stats and History
- Total Match Played = 156
- Won = 66
- Loss = 77
- No Result = 13
- Tie = 0
Sri Lanka Women T20 Stats and History
- Total Match Played = 143
- Won = 47
- Loss = 88
- No Result = 8
- Tie = 0
South Africa Women vs Sri Lanka Women head-to-head stats
- Total Match Played = 14
- South Africa Women won = 10
- Sri Lanka Women won = 4
- No Result = 0
SA-W vs SL-W 1st T20 Score Prediction:
If South Africa Women Bat First: 130+
If Sri Lanka Women Bat First: 101+
Winning Chances Of South Africa Women and Sri Lanka Women?
South Africa Women winning chances are 61% in this match
Sri Lanka Women winning chances are 39% in this match
Weather And Pitch Report
The forecast of cloudy skies and a maximum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius suggests conditions will favor bowlers. Spinners from both sides are expected to play a pivotal role. Given the trend of successful chases at the venue, the team winning the toss might opt to bowl first and capitalize on the early assistance from the pitch.
Winning Prediction
Despite Sri Lanka’s World Cup heroics, South Africa holds a slight edge in this encounter. They possess a well-rounded squad with the ability to post competitive totals and utilize their home advantage effectively. However, Sri Lanka’s bowling prowess and potential for an upset should not be underestimated.
Our Winner: South Africa Women Will Win
This T20I opener promises to be a captivating battle between two determined teams. Cricket fans can expect a thrilling display of athleticism and strategic brilliance on the field.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.