Sri Lanka and Afghanistan Prepare for the ICC ODI World Cup
Kasun Rajitha provided a crucial breakthrough for Sri Lanka as opener Ibrahim Zadran departed after a remarkable 98. However, Afghanistan continues to dominate, with Rahmat Shah having completed a composed fifty. Earlier, Charith Asalanka’s 91 enabled SL to reach a competitive total on a tricky pitch.
Matches to be Played at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium in Hambantota
All three matches in this series will be played 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 the series as a preparation opportunity.
Playing XIs of Sri Lanka and Afghanistan
The Playing XIs for Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are as follows:
Afghanistan (Playing XI): Rahmanullah Gurbaz (w), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik
Sri Lanka (Playing XI): Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (w), Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka (c), Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dushan Hemantha, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Lahiru Kumara
Conclusion
The SL vs AFG series is a great opportunity for both teams to prepare for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup in India. With both teams having formidable playing XIs, the series is sure to be an exciting affair.