Sri Lanka are set for an almighty test Down Under as they face a very strong world champion Australia side. Despite giving Justin Langer the elbow, Australia are in a good space on the field.
Australia vs Sri Lanka | Friday 11 February 2022 | The SCG, Sydney | 10:10
To Win Match
Australia 2/15 | Tie 25/1 | Sri Lanka 52/10
Australia
Australia have picked an intriguing blend of established international performers and BBL standouts for this series as international cricket down under makes a return following the Ashes.
Travis Head has been released from the Aussies’ squad to get red-ball cricket under his belt ahead of the tour to Pakistan. This means that Australia will only have Matthew Wade in their ranks in terms of left-handers who are recognised middle-order batters.
Fast-bowling allrounder Daniel Sams has replaced Head in the squad and should be eager to impress ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.
David Warner will try to cover for a lack of lefties by continuing his purple patch against Sri Lanka, having scored fifty or more in his last four outings against the islanders.
Sri Lanka
Leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga must be considered Sri Lanka’s dangerman, and the man who could give the tourists a foothold in the series. Hasaranga claimed the wickets Glenn Maxwell and Aaron Finch at the World Cup and could enjoy bowling to the right-handers in the Australia ranks.
Dasun Shanaka has proven an able leader of a Sri Lanka team who are finally threatening a resurgence thanks to exciting talents in their ranks.
Charith Asalanka is a dangerous and explosive batter who gives this Sri Lanka team a major power boost.
Sri Lanka’s opening batter Kusal Mendis tested positive for COVID-19 and will not be involved in the first match of the series.
Verdict: Australia 2/15
Despite getting rid of Justin Langer – who led them to the T20 World Cup and a 4-0 Ashes success – the Australians really should have the measure of the Sri Lankans in home conditions. For a bit more value, back the Aussies to grab the highest opening partnership at 6/10.
