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The cricketing excitement is reaching its zenith as Sri Lanka prepare to face Zimbabwe in the highly anticipated third and final T20 International (T20I) at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Thursday, January 18.
The three-match T20I series is currently deadlocked at 1-1, with both teams having secured a victory in the previous encounters. With the series hanging in the balance, the forthcoming match is a do-or-die clash for both Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, as the winner will claim the coveted T20I series.
The return of Angelo Mathews to the shortest format has proven to be a significant boost for the home team. Mathews has emerged as the leading run-scorer for the Islanders in the T20I series, amassing an impressive 112 runs. His experience and skill will be crucial for Sri Lanka as they aim to clinch the series on their home turf.
On the opposing side, Craig Ervine has been the linchpin of Zimbabwe’s batting lineup, accumulating a total of 80 runs in the series. The visitors will look to Ervine to deliver another stellar performance and guide them to victory in the crucial encounter.
When it comes to bowling prowess, both teams boast standout performers. Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana and Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani have been instrumental with the ball, each claiming four wickets in the series so far. Their ability to break partnerships and provide crucial breakthroughs will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the series decider.
T20I Stats and Records at R. Premadasa Stadium:
- Total matches: 57
- Matches won batting first: 23
- Matches won bowling first: 33
- Average first innings scores: 143
- Average second innings scores: 129
- Highest total recorded: 215/5 (19.4 Ov) by Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka
- Lowest total recorded: 80/10 (17.2 Ov) by Afghanistan vs England
- Highest score chased: 215/5 (19.4 Ov) by Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka
- Lowest score defended: 115/6 (20 Ov) by South Africa vs Sri Lanka
Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2024, T20I Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, UK & other countries
R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report:
The pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium typically provides favorable conditions for batters early in the game, gradually transforming into a surface that supports spinners as the match unfolds. Expect a well-balanced contest between bat and ball throughout the encounter at this venue. Pursuing a target on this pitch could pose challenges, making the decision to bat first a likely preference for the captain winning the toss.
Colombo Weather Forecast:
The weather outlook appears promising for the third T20I in Colombo between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, with only a 5% chance of rain. Anticipated conditions include a temperature of approximately 29 degrees Celsius and a humidity level of around 75%. Additionally, the forecast suggests a moderate wind speed of 13 kmph.
SL vs ZIM 3rd T20I, Probable Playing XIs:
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Maheesh Theekshana
Zimbabwe: Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Ryan Burl, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Clive Madande (wk), Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava
