Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Toss Won By Afghanistan, 1st ODI of Three-Match Series Begins
The first One Day International (ODI) of the three-match series between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan is all set to begin, with the toss being won by the latter. Afghanistan have opted to bowl first in the match, which is being held at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium in Hambantota.
With the ICC ODI World Cup scheduled to take place later this year in India, both teams are viewing this series as a great opportunity to prepare for the tournament.
Afghanistan’s Playing XI
The Afghan team consists of Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicket-keeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Fareed Ahmad Malik.
Sri Lanka’s Playing XI
On the other hand, the Sri Lankan squad consists of Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wicket-keeper), Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka (captain), Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dushan Hemantha, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, and Lahiru Kumara.
Conclusion
The first ODI of the three-match series between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan is expected to be a closely fought contest, as both teams look to gain a competitive edge before the ICC ODI World Cup. The match promises to be an exciting affair, as the two sides battle it out for supremacy.