Sports Buzz

Tag: Pallekele

  • Sri Lanka Cricket announces the schedule for the home white-ball series against the West Indies

    Sri Lanka Cricket announces the schedule for the home white-ball series against the West Indies

    Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced the comprehensive schedule for the upcoming bilateral series against the West Indies, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is.

    Venue and white ball series details

    The series is set to kick off on October 13 with the first T20I, followed closely by the second T20I on October 15 and concluding with the third T20I on October 17. The ODI segment of the series will commence from October 20, with subsequent matches scheduled for October 23 and 26. All T20Is will be hosted at the scenic Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, while the ODI matches will unfold at the illustrious Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

    Momentum with Sri Lanka

    Sri Lanka will head into the upcoming series riding a wave of momentum following a string of impressive performances. The team recently secured an ODI series win over India, a Test match triumph against England at The Oval, and a commendable showing in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand. Their confidence will be high as they look to continue this winning streak.

    Also READ: SL vs NZ: Netizens react as Kusal Mendis hits a stunning century on Day 2 of the second Test in Galle

    West Indies’ recent form

    While the West Indies have encountered challenges in Test cricket, they will take heart from their recent success in the shorter format. The side clinched a dominant 3-0 victory in the T20I series against South Africa at home, showcasing their prowess in the limited-overs format. As they gear up for the series against Sri Lanka, they’ll be eager to translate that success into the longer formats.

    ODI and T20 Head-to-Head

    In the ODI format, both teams have been evenly matched over the years, with the West Indies holding a slight edge. West Indies team has 31 wins to Sri Lanka’s 30 in their head-to-head encounters. However, in T20Is, Sri Lanka holds a narrow advantage with eight wins, while the West Indies have seven. This close competition between the two teams promises an exciting contest across both formats in the upcoming series.

    West Indies tour of Sri Lanka 2024:

    T20I series fixture:

    • 1st T20I: October 13 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla
    • 2nd T20I: October 15 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla
    • 3rd T20I: October 17 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla

    ODI series fixture:

    • 1st ODI: October 20 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele
    • 2nd ODI: October 23 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele
    • 3rd ODI: October 26 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele

    Also READ: SL vs NZ: Fans erupt as Kamindu Mendis shatters records with 5th Test century on Day 2 of the 2nd Test

    Source link

  • Netizens celebrate as India completes a T20I series whitewash with a super over victory against Sri Lanka

    Netizens celebrate as India completes a T20I series whitewash with a super over victory against Sri Lanka

    In a pulsating finale to the T20I series, the Indian cricket team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, secured a dramatic victory over Charith Asalanka’s Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday (July 30). India achieved a clean sweep in the series, winning 3-0, despite facing a challenging final match that extended into a Super Over. The Indian side emerged victorious from a precarious position, largely due to the exceptional bowling performances of Rinku Singh and Suryakumar in the final overs of the match.

    India’s resilient performance

    Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl first, putting India on the back foot early on. The Lankan bowlers restricted the Indian top order significantly, with only Shubman Gill managing to make a substantial impact. Gill scored 39 runs off 37 balls, while the rest of the top-order struggled, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (10), Sanju Samson (0), Rinku (1), Suryakumar (8) and Shivam Dube (13) all failing to contribute effectively. India lost five wickets for just 45 runs, struggling to build a solid foundation.

    Despite the top-order collapse, Riyan Parag (26 off 18 balls) and Washington Sundar (25 off 18 balls) provided some valuable contributions. Their efforts, along with Gill’s innings, helped India post a total of 137 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs. Maheesh Theekshana was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, claiming three wickets.

    Also READ: SL vs IND: Fans spark meme fest as Sanju Samson registers back-to-back ducks in the T20I series

    Sri Lanka’s chase and super over drama

    In response, Sri Lanka’s chase was anchored by Kusal Mendis, who scored 43 runs off 41 balls. However, key moments in the match turned the tide in India’s favor. Washington Sundar‘s crucial double-wicket over in the 17th over, where he dismissed two Sri Lankan batters, significantly tightened the contest. When Sri Lanka needed 9 runs from 12 balls, Rinku, making his T20 debut as a bowler, delivered a stunning 19th over. He dismissed Kusal Perera (46 off 34 balls) and Ramesh Mendis, leaving Sri Lanka needing 6 runs off the final over.

    Captain Suryakumar took charge of the last over for India and delivered a remarkable performance, taking two wickets and conceding only five runs. This superb bowling effort restricted Sri Lanka to 137 runs for 8 wickets in their 20 overs, and the match proceeded to the Super Over.

    The decisive super over: India’s thrilling finish

    The Super Over began with Sri Lanka batting first, facing a crucial task to set a challenging target for India. Sri Lanka’s innings nevertheless was quickly disrupted by India’s Sundar, who delivered a masterful performance.

    Sundar’s accuracy and composure under pressure were evident as he restricted Sri Lanka to just 3 runs in their Super Over. His first delivery resulted in a single, and he followed up with a well-placed ball that yielded another single. Sundar’s next delivery trapped a Sri Lankan batter in front of the stumps for a critical wicket. After another dot ball and a single, Sundar struck again, taking another wicket and ensuring the Sri Lankans could only manage a total of 3 runs.

    With the modest target set, India’s Suryakumar took on the challenge of chasing down the runs. He faced the first ball of the Super Over with intent, and with a powerful stroke, struck a boundary through the infield. This boundary not only secured the winning runs but also sealed the match for India, confirming their clean sweep of the series with a 3-0 victory.

    Here’s how Netizens reacted:

    Also READ: New captain to lead as Sri Lanka announces 16-member ODI squad for India series



    Source link

  • Twitter reactions: Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga’s heroics propel Sri Lanka to a series-clinching victory over Afghanistan in the 2nd ODI

    Twitter reactions: Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga’s heroics propel Sri Lanka to a series-clinching victory over Afghanistan in the 2nd ODI

    Sri Lanka asserted their supremacy, sealing the three-match series against Afghanistan with an authoritative 155 runs win in the second ODI at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 11, Sunday. The victory was shaped by a combination of Charith Asalanka‘s impactful batting and Wanindu Hasaranga‘s brilliant bowling, showcasing Sri Lanka’s prowess in all facets of the game.

    Solid partnerships lay the foundation for Sri Lanka’s innings

    The Sri Lankan innings unfolded with a dynamic mix of solid partnerships and individual brilliance. Pathum Nissanka set the tone with a brisk 18 off 17 balls, laying the foundation for the middle order. Despite Avishka Fernando‘s failure with the bat Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a sturdy 61, and Sadeera Samarawickrama contributed a valuable 52.

    Charith Asalanka’s remarkable batting

    However, the standout performance came from Charith Asalanka, falling agonizingly short of a century with a dazzling 97 off 74 balls. His innings injected vitality and flair, featuring a blend of classical shots and aggressive strokeplay, including 9 fours and 2 sixes. Janith Liyanage added a significant half-century and Hasaranga provided late-order impetus with 14 runs that took Sri Lanka score to 308/6. Afghanistan’s bowling struggled to contain the onslaught, with Azmatullah Omarzai being the most successful bowler, picking three wickets.

    Afghanistan’s uphill battle and Wanindu Hasaranga’s decisive spell

    Chasing a challenging target of 309, Afghanistan faced a daunting task against the formidable Sri Lankan bowling attack. Despite Ibrahim Zadran‘s resilience with a hard-fought 54 and Rahmat Shah‘s commendable 63, Sri Lanka’s bowlers were relentless. Despite Afghanistan being 143/2 at one stage, Hasaranga’s dangerous spell turned the tide decisively in Sri Lanka’s favour.

    Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    His variations, control, and ability to pick up wickets at crucial junctures dismantled the Afghan middle order. Hasaranga’s final figures of 4 wickets for 27 runs in 6.5 overs underscored his match-winning impact. Dilshan Madushanka and Asitha Fernando scalped 2 wickets eac, and Pramod Madushan chipped in with a wicket. The Sri Lankan bowlers dismantled the Afghan batting order with precision, restricting them to 153/10 in 33.5 overs.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka



    Source link

  • Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI

    Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI

    In a riveting encounter at the Pallekele International Stadium, Sri Lanka showcased a batting spectacle on the back of Pathum Nissanka‘s spectacular double ton, overshadowing Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi‘s gritty centuries, to secure a commanding victory over Afghanistan by 42 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series.

    Sri Lanka’s dominant display

    The Sri Lankan innings unfolded as a masterclass in batting supremacy, spearheaded by Nissanka’s monumental double century. Nissanka’s breathtaking innings of 210 runs off 139 balls, adorned with 20 fours and 8 sixes, illuminated the stadium with sheer brilliance. Avishka Fernando‘s contribution of a solid 88 runs laid the foundation for a formidable total. Despite facing a couple of early setbacks, Sadeera Samarawickrama‘s aggressive 45 ensured Sri Lanka posted an imposing 381/3 in their alloted 50 overs.

    Pathum Nissanka’s historic achievement

    Nissanka’s double century not only anchored the Sri Lankan innings but also etched his name in the record books as the first Sri Lankan to achieve this milestone in ODIs. His innings was a perfect blend of elegance and power, dismantling the Afghan bowling attack with consummate ease.

    Afghanistan’s struggle in bowling

    The Afghanistan bowlers found it challenging to contain the Sri Lankan batters, with Fareed Malik being the only successful bowler, picking two wickets. The rest of the bowling unit, including Fazalhaq Farooqi, Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib, went wicketless, conceding significant runs.

    Afghanistan’s dismal start and fight from Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi

    In pursuit of a daunting target, Afghanistan faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 55/5 at one stage. However, a remarkable fightback ensued, spearheaded by Omarzai and Nabi. Omarzai played a sensational innings, scoring 149 runs off 115 balls, complemented by Nabi’s gritty 136 off 130 balls. The duo stitched a remarkable 242-run partnership for the sixth wicket, bringing Afghanistan back into the contest.

    Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Sri Lanka’s bowling resilience

    Despite the Omarzai-Nabi partnership, Sri Lanka’s bowlers displayed resilience. Pramod Madushan was exceptional, claiming four crucial wickets for 75 runs. Dushmantha Chameera contributed with two wickets, ensuring the required run rate kept escalating for Afghanistan. In the end, Afghanistan fell short of the target, finishing at 339/6 in 50 overs.

    Player of the Match

    Nissanka’s historic double century rightfully earned him the Player of the Match accolade, steering Sri Lanka to a memorable victory. His exceptional innings showcased the class and talent that will be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts. The series promises more thrilling encounters as both teams gear up for the subsequent ODIs

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka</h3



    Source link

  • SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    Following the one-off test match, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are set to engage in a three-game ODI series, commencing this Friday at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

    Kusal Mendis will take charge as the captain of the Sri Lankan side, while Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the Afghan side. Riding the momentum from their triumph in the solitary Test match, Sri Lanka will aim to kick off the 50-over series with a victory. Meanwhile, Afghanistan, returning to the ODI format for the first time since the World Cup 2023 , will be eager to put up a strong fight against the hosts.

    Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 1st ODI:

    • Date and Time: February 9, 2024, 02:30 pm local time/ 10:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm IST
    • Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

    Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch report:

    The Pallekele Cricket Stadium is home to a batting-friendly pitch, well-known for its favorable conditions for batters. This surface doesn’t offer significant support to fast bowlers, creating an enticing setting for batters to showcase their skills and enjoy fruitful innings. Once batters find their groove and get accustomed to the conditions, they can take advantage of numerous opportunities to accumulate substantial runs. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to evolve, developing additional grip that plays into the hands of spin bowlers. Consequently, winning the toss often prompts captains to choose batting first, aiming to exploit the favorable conditions that the Pallekele pitch offers throughout the fixture.

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeepers: Kusal Mendis, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
    • Batters: Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ibrahim Zadran, Pathum Nissanka
    • All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dunith Wellalage
    • Bowlers: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Maheesh Theekshana

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    • Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Azmatullah Omarzai (vc)
    • Choice 2: Kusal Mendis (c), Mohammad Nabi (vc)

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Team for today’s match (Feb 9, 9:00 am GMT)

    SL vs AFG, Dream11 Team (Image Source: Screenshot Dream11)

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Sahan Arachchige, Akila Dananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Shevon Daniel

    Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, Farid Ahmad

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Sri Lanka’s best XI for ODI series against Afghanistan

    Source link