A crucial Super Eight fixture awaits on February 25, where New Zealand square off against Sri Lanka in what could prove to be a turning point in the race to the semi-finals.
There is no denying the destructive potential of New Zealand’s opening pair when they find their rhythm. However, consistency has been a challenge for them so far in the tournament. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert can win matches for the Kiwis. The duo will be keen to put Sri Lanka under pressure.
Several teams in the competition have focused on building a strong and extended batting lineup, and New Zealand appear to have followed a similar approach. However, on paper, their middle order lacks the same punch as powerhouses like India, South Africa, and England. Captain Mitchell Santner, primarily known for his left-arm spin, can contribute useful runs down the order, but concerns remain over the prolonged lean patch of Rachin Ravindra, which continues to trouble the team’s balance.
Lockie Ferguson’s fiery start has been promising, but he’ll need to show better control in the coming matches. Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry must aim for early wickets and sustain pressure to disrupt Sri Lanka’s batting flow.
New Zealand Playing XI vs Sri Lanka: Finn Allen, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry.
For Sri Lanka, Pathum Nissanka has the ability to anchor the innings with controlled aggression and bat deep, while his opening partner Kamil Mishara offers stability at the other end.
If Nissanka is dismissed early, Sri Lanka still have reliable players like Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka to build the innings. However, If New Zealand fail to make early breakthroughs, they will have to put in extra effort to regain control of the game.
The absence of Matheesha Pathirana is a setback, but Dilshan Madushanka offers a viable alternative. He could prove valuable alongside Maheesh Theekshana to slow the game down and pick up key wickets.
Sri Lanka Playing XI vs New Zealand: Pathum Nissanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (w), Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.
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