What was Sri Lanka's preparation for the T20 World Cup?

Sri Lanka's preparation included a disappointing 0-3 whitewash against England in a home T20 series.

Who are key players for Sri Lanka in the T20 World Cup?

Key players for Sri Lanka include Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, captain Dasun Shanaka, and spin bowler Wanindu Hasaranga.

What is Ireland's recent form heading into the T20 World Cup?

Ireland is coming off impressive series wins against Italy and the UAE and hopes to maintain their winning run.

Home / Sports / Sri Lanka's World Cup opener: Can they overcome poor prep?

Sri Lanka's World Cup opener: Can they overcome poor prep?

7 Feb

•

Summary

Sri Lanka's preparation included a 0-3 whitewash against England.
The team seeks to improve consistency in batting and bowling.
Ireland aims to be a giant-killer after recent series wins.

Sri Lanka's World Cup opener: Can they overcome poor prep?

Sri Lanka begins its T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland in Colombo on Sunday, aiming to rebound from a lackluster preparation period. The co-hosts were swept 0-3 by England in their final tune-up series, exposing inconsistencies in both batting and bowling under pressure.

As the 2014 T20 World Cup champions, Sri Lanka possesses home advantage and a squad with the potential to advance to the Super Stage. However, the team's top order must deliver, as the middle order lacks significant impact. Key players like Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis will be crucial at the top, supported by veteran Kusal Perera and captain Dasun Shanaka, who is vital as a finisher and pace-bowling all-rounder.

Sri Lanka's pace attack will feature Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana, though the absence of the injured Eshan Malinga, replaced by Pramod Madhusan, is noted. The spin department, led by Wanindu Hasaranga, includes Dunith Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana. However, Hasaranga's recent form against England has been a concern, and he will seek a fresh start.