India is set to pursue a clean sweep in the third and final T20I against Sri Lanka on Tuesday, July 30, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Having already secured the series with a seven-wicket victory (DLS method) in the rain-affected second T20I, India will aim to conclude the series on a high note.
In the previous match, Sri Lanka had posted a total of 165 runs. India, after a rain interruption, were given a revised target of 78 runs in eight overs. The Men in Blue achieved this target comfortably in just 6.3 overs. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been instrumental in India’s campaign, remarked that while the rain provided some advantage, India played well to secure the win. Ravi Bishnoi was the standout performer with the ball, delivering an exceptional spell of 3 wickets for 26 runs in 4 overs.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be disappointed with their recent performance. Despite a solid start provided by Kusal Perera, their batting faltered in the final overs, managing only 22 runs in the last four overs. The interruption of play also did not help their cause. Sri Lankan bowlers faced challenges due to the weather conditions, impacting their ability to control the game effectively.
With the series already decided, India may use this final T20I to experiment with their squad. Players such as Washington Sundar, Khaleel Ahmed, and Shivam Dube, who have yet to feature in the series, might be given a chance in the playing XI. Additionally, Sanju Samson’s performance as an opener has been under scrutiny, leading to potential changes with Shubman Gill possibly coming in. Captain Suryakumar Yadav has been in outstanding form, scoring 84 runs at a striking rate of 221.05, leading the team from the front.
Hardik Pandya will be keen to make a mark, especially after having struggled with the ball in previous matches. Riyan Parag has shown promise with the ball and will be looking to contribute with the bat as well.
For the third T20I, India’s predicted XI includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya/Shivam Dube, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel/Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, and Mohammed Siraj/Khaleel Ahmed. Sri Lanka’s expected lineup features Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ramesh Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, and Asitha Fernando.
As both teams prepare for the final clash, India will be focused on extending their winning streak, while Sri Lanka aims to salvage some pride with a strong performance.
