• Match: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, 2nd ODI Match, Zimbabwe tour of Sri Lanka 2024
• Date and Time: January 11, 09:00 am GMT / 02:30 pm IST / 03:00 pm BD
• Venue: R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka celebrated their victory on Monday but were overly dependent on their lower-order batsmen. They aim for an improved performance from the top half in this upcoming ODI, seeking overall improvements across the team before the series’ final match.

Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe showcased marked improvement in the second ODI, hinting at their potential to elevate their game further in this encounter. Stepping up could potentially lead them to a victory, leveling the series at 1-1. It’s crucial for them to utilize their entire overs after being bowled out in 44.4 overs during the previous match.

Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (C & WK), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Dilshan Madushanka.

Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (Captain), Joylord Gumbie (Wicket-Keeper), Milton Shumba, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Faraz Akram, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza.

Due to weather conditions in the first ODI, the series retains a level of competitiveness leading into the final game. Zimbabwe showcased strong moments in the second match, appearing poised to secure a victory and a 1-0 series lead at one stage. Nonetheless, Sri Lanka’s seasoned side holds considerable experience, and we anticipate their quality will enable them to clinch another win, sealing the series 2-0.

Prediction: Sri Lanka to defeat Zimbabwe in the 3rd ODI.

In the series to date, each team has won one toss and elected to bat first. With the final ODI on the horizon, our prediction leans towards both captains opting to bat first again should they win the toss.

Similar to previous instances, the R Premadasa Stadium exhibited favorable conditions for spinners, along with a decent pace conducive for the fast bowlers early in the innings during Monday’s match. A competitive score is anticipated to range no higher than 250 in this upcoming game.

Thursday afternoon and evening in Colombo are expected to be humid and warm, with potential rain interruptions forecasted intermittently throughout the match.

• Venue: R.Premadasa Stadium
• City: Colombo
• Capacity: 35,000
• Ends: Khettarama End, Scoreboard End
• Hosts to: Sri Lanka