ODI World Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka, Match 33 - Top player battles to watch out for

India (IND) and Sri Lanka (SL) will clash with each other at the Wankhede Stadium in match 33 of the Cricket World Cup 2023. Team India have performed exceptionally in this competition so far, winning all their six matches while Sri Lanka will go into the contest in Mumbai after getting a seven-wicket beating at the hands of Afghanistan at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. 

Both Asian sides have faced each other nine times in World Cup tournaments in which both sides emerged victorious four times apiece while one match ended with no result. The last time, they played each other at the Wankhede Stadium stadium was in the World Cup 2011 final. In the iconic game, India won by six wickets and lifted the distinguished trophy after 24 years. This time, the Men in Blue are favourites against the 1996 champions but both teams have some players who have the potential to win matches for their sides. Noting the reputation of these players, spectators would want to witness battles between outstanding players from both teams.

Here are the top player battles to watch out for in India versus Sri Lanka game

1. Rohit Sharma vs Angelo Mathews

Rohit Sharma will look to lead the team from the front on his home ground. Currently, he is the leading run-getter for India with 398 runs in six matches at a magnificent strike rate of 119.16. In this contest, the 36-year-old might face veteran Angelo Mathews, who replaced the injured Matheesha Pathirana in the Sri Lanka team. Mathews’ bowling record is excellent against Rohit as the former has given only 103 runs off 175 deliveries against the latter in 20 One-Day International (ODI) innings. 

Also check: List of Rohit Sharma International Centuries

2. Mohammed Shami vs Kusal Mendis

After bagging a four-wicket haul against England in Lucknow, Mohammed Shami’s endeavours will be to dominate Sri Lanka batters in Mumbai. Shami has the capability to destroy Sri Lanka’s batting unit and noting that, Kusal Mendis will have to strengthen his team while batting in the top order. Mendis hasn’t looked confident in the last few matches but against the hosts, he will have to showcase his best.

Also see: Mohammed Shami Cricket Career Records

3. Jasprit Bumrah vs Pathum Nissanka

Jasprit Bumrah is spearheading India’s pace attack confidently in this tournament and he will look to do the same in Mumbai. The paceman has provided early breakthroughs to his team consistently in this competition and considering his superb form, Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka will have to display his spunky side to give a fine start to Sri Lanka. In the Asia Cup 2023 Super Four match, Nissanka was seen struggling against the 29-year-old at the R. Premadasa Stadium.