T20 World Cup 2021: Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI against Australia

Sri Lanka have surprised the onlookers of the game by displaying a dominating brand of cricket in the Qualifiers and as well as in their first match of the Super 12 stage against Bangladesh. Few tactical changes and bowlers have been the catalyst of those victories. The batting has looked solid, with the likes of Avishka Fernando and Charith Asalanka leading the charge.

With that confidence and momentum, the side now takes on Australia on Thursday (October 28). With four wins on the trot, and with familiar sub-continent-like conditions, Sri Lanka are looking every inch the dark horse side. The only concern for the management is the availability of mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana. The 21-year-old didn’t play a game against Bangladesh due to back pain, and it is not confirmed yet he is fit to play against Australia.

His replacement player Binura Fernando performed decently in the last match and managed to pick one wicket. By the looks of it, Sri Lanka will keep the same combination against Australia.

Sri Lanka predicted XI against Australia:

Openers- Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka

Kusal Perera failed to provide the team a solid start against Bangladesh as he got out for just one run. The southpaw has played 55 T20Is and has a vast amount of experience. Australia have quality fast bowlers up their sleeve, and Perera’s blistering start upfront would be vital for Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, Pathum Nissanka has not seen in great form in Qualifiers and also against Bangladesh. Barring that 61 against Ireland, Nissanka has failed to convert his starts into something substantial. The youngster would be hoping to change that trend against Australia, along with his senior partner Perera.

Middle-order- Charith Asalanka, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa

The middle-order batters have been in good form for Sri Lanka. Asalanka scored an enterprising unbeaten 80 against Bangladesh, while Rajapaksa supported him by chipping in with a vital 53. The duo’s efforts enabled Sri Lanka to chase a steep target of 172 with relative ease against Bangladesh.

Avishka Fernando has been a revelation for the team at number four. He has looked confident and has been striking at 140. He had a rare failure against Bangladesh as he was out for a duck.

All-rounders- Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne 

The all-rounders have looked solid for Sri Lanka by chipping in with vital contributions with the bat and ball. Leg-spinner Hasranga has carried his form from the India and South series and has six wickets in four games.

Skipper Shanaka has lent solidarity lower down the order by finishing off games well. Youngster Karunartane has also looked impressive with the ball in hand. He picked up one wicket against Bangladesh and gave away only 12 runs in his three overs.

Bowlers – Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, Binura Fernando

Along with spinners, even pace bowlers Chameera, Kumara and Fernando have looked good. The trio have complimented the slower bowlers well and have chipped in with wickets at the power play and death overs. With the Dubai wicket offering some nice pace and carry, the trio would look to again make early inroads against Australia.