New Delhi: India and Sri Lanka are entering 2023 with the T20I series and will look to begin the year on a high note. Sri Lanka, which has been in the middle of a political and economic crisis, managed to win the Asia Cup last year while India could not win either Asia Cup or the T20 World Cup. India has a changed young squad led by Hardik Pandya while Sri Lanka is coming up with a regular squad under Dasun Shanaka.
New beginning for men in blue
Leaving the past and big names behind, Hardik Pandya with his superstar deputy Suryakumar Yadav will be leading the pack in the T20Is. Pandya’s victory in IPL and his composure after returning from injury have made him more lethal and a good leader. On the other hand, SKY has had the best year of his life where he emerged as the number 1 T20 batter and is capable of turning matches singlehandedly.
The inclusion of Ishan Kishan, who is coming after hitting a double ton, and Sanju Samson, gives India stability with power-hitting capabilities. Both Kishan and Sanju along with SKY have to make sure that India does not miss the services of Rohit, Rahul and Kohli.
All-rounder Washington Sundar, who was once India’s best T20 bowler, is back after injuries and is playing well. He has shown on numerous occasions that he can hit the ball out of the park and can contain runs in the powerplay. Both Sundar and Axar Patel have done well to fill in Ravindra Jadeja’s spot.
It is time for Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal to step up while a great chance for newcomers Shivam Mavi and Mukesh Kumar. Umran Malik has taken a few wickets but has a lot to prove, especially with consistent lines and lengths.
Overall, a newer team in India is under construction and these youngsters may help the management to take the tough calls.
#TeamIndia squad for three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka.#INDvSL @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/iXNqsMkL0Q
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 27, 2022
Sri Lankan surprise
The Sri Lankan team has surprised everyone with their unexpected victories and losses. Pathum Nisanka and Bhanuka Rajapaksa have been their batting stalwarts with the experience of Kusal Mendis and they will be needed to deliver in order to take away the series from the hosts.
With Lahiru Kumara back and Maheesh Theekshana striking, the Sri Lankan pace attack looks back in form. The spin attack led by Wanindu Hasaranga is the key to their bowling and if they deliver well against a nation that plays spin well, it will be something of an achievement for them.
Sir Lanka has great all-rounders in Dhananjay De Silva and Chamika Karunaratne who can take away the game from inexperienced India. With highs and lows, Sri Lanka will look to be more consistent this year.
