The action in the India tour of Sri Lanka now shifts to the longer format. India, having whitewashed the home team in the T20I series, will be looking to repeat their dominance in the ODIs. The three-match ODI series between the two teams will be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, with the first match taking place on August 2 at 2:00 PM IST.
Team Previews
India
The Indian team showcased a brilliant team effort in the recently concluded T20I series. Despite the whitewash, the victories were hard-fought, with India making comebacks from disadvantageous positions in all three games. Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, the team displayed great character, grit, and nerves in the shortest format of international cricket.
For the ODIs, the return of 50-over skipper Rohit Sharma and other key players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Kuldeep Yadav strengthens the unit. This series is crucial for India as they have only six ODIs before the Champions Trophy scheduled for February 2025, making it a significant preparatory ground for the marquee event.
Sri Lanka
After the beating they received in the T20I series, the home team will be desperate to make a strong comeback in the ODIs. The main concern for Sri Lanka in the T20Is was their inability to maintain momentum. Led by Charith Asalanka, the team will be looking to change their fortunes with the change in format. Like India, Sri Lanka will use this series to prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy in February 2025.
IND vs SL Match Details & Live Streaming
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | August 2, 2:00 PM IST |
| Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
| Live broadcast & streaming | Sony Sports Network & Sony LIV |
IND vs SL R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo Pitch Report
The pitch at the R. Premadasa Stadium generally favours batters. However, as the game progresses, spinners will come into play. Pacers who can use cutters and vary their pace towards the end of the innings could be crucial.
Location
Probable Playing XI
India
- Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Khaleel Ahmed
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (C), Chamika Karunaratne, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Mohamed Shiraz, Ehsan Malinga, Asitha Fernando
Key Highlights and Bullet Points
- India’s Recent Form: India whitewashed Sri Lanka in the T20I series, showcasing strong comebacks in all three games.
- Sri Lanka’s Challenge: After a tough T20I series, Sri Lanka aims to turn the tables in the ODIs with a fresh mindset.
- Pitch Report: Batters are likely to benefit from the pitch, with spinners and pace variations playing key roles as the game progresses.
- Preparations for Champions Trophy: Both teams are using this series as preparation for the Champions Trophy in February 2025.
Match Prediction
With their recent form and key players returning, India looks strong on paper. However, Sri Lanka, with home advantage and a desire to bounce back, could pose a significant challenge.
This article provides a detailed preview of the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, including team previews, match details, pitch report, probable playing XI, and key highlights.