Sunil Gavaskar predicts the result of the ODI series between India and Sri Lanka

The Test cricket fever in the Lankan island will now switch sides to the limited-overs mode, as both India and Sri Lanka will lock horns in a 5-match ODI series followed by a solitary T20I game. It is time for the Virat Kohli-led side to show its dominance and strength in the shorter format, much like the Test series, which they won 3-0. On the other hand, Lanka ODI skipper Upul Tharanga is still pretty confident of his team putting a better and improved performance in the upcoming ODI series.

However, former Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar feels that the Indian team is far a stronger and better side, in comparison with the inexperienced Lankans. He predicted a 4-1 series win for the visitors, due to the strong composition of the Indian team. Gavaskar pointed out some major facts including the Sri Lanka’s bowling attack as a basis for his judgement.

“My prediction is it will be 4-1 in favour of India. Sri Lanka’s bowling looks a little bit weak,” Gavaskar told NDTV.

White ball can help the hosts

The former Indian captain feels that the white ball used in the shorter formats can help the Lankan batsmen to score with some ease as the white ball doesn’t swing much in comparison to the red ball. “White ball will be easier for the Sri Lankan batsmen,” added Gavaskar.

He stated that the home side was a lot tentative in their approach in the recently concluded Test series including the ODI skipper Upul Tharanga, who had his share of struggles and poor form in the longer format. However, in Gavaskar’s view, the upcoming series is a good opportunity for Tharanga to lead from the front as the left-hander is a far better player when it comes to ODI cricket.

“Upul Tharanga is a very good one-day player. Sri Lanka can re-invent themselves in the one-dayers,” he termed.

Manish Pandey deserves a place

The former opener also praised middle order batsman Manish Pandey for his consistent performance in the domestic circuit and also backed him to get a place in the playing XI in the upcoming ODI series. 27-year old Pandey is making a comeback in the team after a great run on the A tour to South Africa in the tri-series. “Manish Pandey deserves a place in the side. He is an outstanding fielder. Pandey can only get better,” concluded Gavaskar.