Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan – 1st ODI Prediction, Preview and Fantasy Cricket Picks

Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan – 1st ODI Prediction, Preview and Fantasy Cricket Picks

Introduction:

As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the thrilling encounter between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan in the 1st ODI of the Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka, scheduled for February 9, 2024, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, the excitement is palpable. With both teams gearing up for a face-off, fantasy cricket players are also busy strategizing their teams based on player form, statistics, and pitch conditions.

Match Details:

Team Overview:

Sri Lanka, coming off a mixed form in their last five matches (WWLWW), is set to field a formidable playing XI led by Kusal Mendis. The batting lineup includes key players like Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal, while the bowling attack boasts talents such as Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera. On the other hand, Afghanistan, with a recent record of LLWLW, will rely on the likes of Rahmat Shah and Rahmanullah Gurbaz to provide a solid start.

Player Form and Stats:

The player statistics for the current series reveal some standout performers. Rahmat Shah, Angelo Mathews, and Ibrahim Zadran have been the leading run-scorers, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Fazalhaq Farooqi have been exceptional with both bat and ball. These insights can guide fantasy cricket enthusiasts in making informed choices for their teams.

Probable Playing XI:

The probable playing XI for both teams includes exciting talents, ensuring a competitive match. Sri Lanka’s lineup features the likes of Pathum Nissanka and A Fernando, while Afghanistan will rely on the experience of players like Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib. Fantasy cricket players should keep a close eye on these selections, especially considering the pitch conditions.

Bench (SL): Shavon Daniel, C Karunaratne, D Madushanka, PM Liyanagamage, A Dananjaya

Bench (AFG): N Zadran, Riaz Hussan, Shahidullah Kamal, Abdul Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Bilal Sami, Sharafuddin Ashraf

Pitch Report:

The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is known for favoring bowlers, especially pacers, with swing assistance. The average first innings score of 186 indicates the challenges batters may face. Considering the pitch report, teams winning the toss might opt to bowl first, aiming to exploit the conditions.

Fantasy Cricket Picks:

For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, key player picks can make or break their teams. Wanindu Hasaranga, with his all-round skills, stands out as a potential captaincy choice. Fazalhaq Farooqi’s recent form as the leading wicket-taker in ILT20 makes him an enticing captaincy option. Azmatullah Omarzai, a quality all-rounder for Afghanistan, brings both batting and bowling prowess to the table.

Players to Avoid:

While building fantasy teams, it’s crucial to avoid players who may not secure a spot in the playing XI or are not in good form. Qais Ahmad, standing in for the injured Rashid, might face stiff competition for a spot. Janith Liyanage, with recent inconsistencies, may not be the ideal pick for fantasy teams.

Dream11 Prediction Team for Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan – 1st ODI:

Wicket Keeper:

1. Kusal Mendis (C)
2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (VC)

Batsmen: 3. Ibrahim Zadran

4. Rahmat Shah
5. S Samarawickrama

All-rounders: 6. Wanindu Hasaranga

7. Azmatullah Omarzai

Bowlers: 8. Maheesh Theekshana

9. Dilshan Madushanka
10. Mujeeb Ur Rahman
11. Fazalhaq Farooqi

Bench: 12. J Liyanage

13. IA Khil (wk)
14. Gulbadin Naib

Captain (C): Kusal Mendis
Vice-Captain (VC): Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Conclusion:

With the teams set to be updated after the toss, fantasy cricket enthusiasts need to stay vigilant for any last-minute changes. The head-to-head record, grand league, and mega league stats provide additional insights for crafting winning fantasy teams. As cricket fans gear up for the clash between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, fantasy cricket adds an extra layer of excitement, making every run and wicket count in the virtual arena.

Read More:

KHT vs SYL Match Prediction, Preview and Fantasy Cricket Tips