On Tuesday, October 3, in Guwahati, Afghanistan (AFG) will take on Sri Lanka (SL) in the eighth warm-up match ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023.

This contest marks only Afghanistan’s third appearance on the global stage of the ODI World Cup, and their previous performances have not been particularly impressive. With just one victory in 15 matches in the tournament’s history, they enter the competition as underdogs. However, the slow and spin-friendly wickets in India could work to their advantage, given their potent spin attack.

Afghanistan’s first warm-up match against South Africa was affected by rain, leaving them eager to make the most of their upcoming fixtures. As mentioned earlier, their spin arsenal is their most formidable weapon in this competition. Once again, all eyes will be on Rashid Khan, who leads their bowling attack, with strong support from players like Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb ur Rahman.

Sri Lanka’s recent ODI performances have been inconsistent. After an impressive 13-match winning streak, they suffered a humbling defeat at the hands of India in the Asia Cup Finals, raising questions about their World Cup preparations.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka’s campaign has been marred by injuries, with key players Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga sidelined. This poses a significant setback to their bowling unit, and the return of Maheesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara, and Dilshan Madushanka from injury adds an element of uncertainty to their lineup.

Barsapara Cricket Stadium Pitch Report:

The pitch is expected to favor batsmen, with spinners getting some assistance as the game progresses. Weather conditions could be a game-changer, as overcast skies and the threat of rain loom throughout the day. The team winning the toss is likely to choose to bat first to set a challenging target.

Head-to-Head Record between AFG and SL:

Matches – 11, Afghanistan – 3, Sri Lanka – 7, No Result – 1

Probable Playing XI for AFG vs SL

Afghanistan (AFG):

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), , Ibrahim Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad/ Naveen-ul-Haq, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Gulbadin Naib

Sri Lanka (SL):

Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Matheesha Pathirana, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Rajitha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c) Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dunith Wellalage/Kasun.

Key Performers to Watch:

Probable Best Batter:

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan):

The right-handed batsman has an opportunity to excel on the batting-friendly pitch conditions early in the innings. His recent performances in the ODI series against Pakistan showcased his excellent form, amassing an impressive total of 174 runs in three innings, with an average of 58, all in conditions similar to the current pitch.

Probable Best Bowler:

Dunith Wellalage (Sri Lanka):

The slow left-arm orthodox bowler poses a significant threat to the Afghanistan middle-order. His performance in the Asia Cup against India, where he took 5 wickets for 40 runs, demonstrates his ability to make the ball turn sharply on pitches that assist spin. Expect to see him in action early in the innings, as his slower-paced deliveries could prove crucial.