BAN vs SL Match Prediction - Who will win today's 1st T20I match between Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka?

Preview

Bangladesh is gearing up for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June, and they're kicking off their preparations with a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka starting tomorrow. In their recent T20 series against New Zealand in New Zealand, Bangladesh managed to draw 1-1, whereas Sri Lanka triumphed over both Zimbabwe and Afghanistan with a 2-1 margin in each of their home series. Despite Bangladesh's past difficulties against Sri Lanka, winning just 4 out of 13 T20I encounters, there has been a noticeable transformation in the team's dynamics, with a surge of energy stemming from the emergence of new talents within the squad in recent months.

Bangladesh boasts a strong track record in Sri Lanka, emerging victorious in three of the last five meetings, albeit across the timeframe of 2013 to 2018. Nonetheless, the missing presence of key players is anticipated to have an impact on key matchups. The contest is poised to be tightly-contested. Both teams are undergoing transformations in their roster and fortunes. The forthcoming series could defy the perceived mismatch highlighted by the numbers. With Bangladesh's history in Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's recent form, supporters can look forward to an engaging face-off between the two teams.

Match Details

Pitch Report

Batsmen at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium can make the most of the pitch, which provides true bounce and allows for well-timed strokes. In the initial stages, fast bowlers might benefit from the windy conditions, while spinners could utilize the bounce to generate late spin off the pitch. The recent matches haven't seen high scores; anything above around 160 would probably be a daunting target. This pitch favours balanced bowling attacks and promises an exciting contest.

Click Here: BAN vs SL Live Score, 1st T20I

Head-to-Head Record

Probable Playing XIs

Bangladesh:

Soumya Sarkar, Litton Das, Anamul Haque (wk), Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Shoriful Islam, Taijul Islam, Mahedi Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed.

Sri Lanka:

Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka (C), Angelo Mathews, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Akila Dananjaya, Jeffrey Vandersay.

Probable Best Batter of the Match

Avishka Fernando steps in for the injured Pathum Nissanka in the top-order, following his notable ODI displays where he scored 91 and 88 in two of the three matches against Afghanistan last month. Since January last year, he has been unavailable for selection in Sri Lanka's T20I side due to inconsistent form and injuries. Fernando will aim to make a significant impact in the upcoming matches. His inclusion reflects the team's faith in his ability to deliver under pressure.

Probable Best Bowler of the Match

Sri Lankan mystery-spinner Akila Dananjaya faced a 12-month suspension from international cricket due to a reported bowling action during New Zealand's 2019 tour of Sri Lanka. However, during the Asia Cup match against India, he showcased his brilliance by claiming 6 wickets. Dananjaya seeks to make up for lost time and aims to leave an indelible mark with his performances after the setback, eying the T20 World Cup.

Today’s Match Prediction: Team batting first to win the match

Scenario 1

Bangladesh win the toss and bat

Powerplay Score: 40-50

First Innings Score: 150-170

Bangladesh win the match

Scenario 2

Sri Lanka win the toss and bat

Powerplay Score: 45-55

First Innings Score: 155-170

Sri Lanka win the match

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Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.