SL vs AFG Live Score: Sri Lanka will lock horns with Afghanistan in Quarterfinal 3 of the Asian Games 2023. Sri Lanka has sent a second-string squad for the Asian Games 2023 Men’s T20I with inexperienced players in the lineup. However, the second-string team will try their best to make a difference in the marquee event. Sahan Arachchige, a batting all-rounder with 2 ODIs to his name will be leading the team. There are many youngsters in this side along with Sahan who are yet to make their T20I debut. So with a completely young & inexperienced lineup, it will be difficult for the Sri Lanka lad to face Afghanistan.
On the other hand, Afghanistan looks quite promising & favorite to win this fixture. This is because they have some experienced players in Naib and Shahzad in addition to the likes of Karim Janat and Qais Ahmed. All 4 players have played plenty of T20 Cricket at International level. While Zakir Khan is yet to scalp a wicket in the T20I format, he has played for T20 franchises across the globe including CPL, BBL, and IPL to name a few. Ashen Bandara & Nuwanidu Fernandi will be the key batters for Sri Lanka while Nuwan Thusahara will be one to watch out for with the ball. It will be a tough job for Sri Lanka to deal with a competitive Afghanistan clan.
SL vs AFG Teams Preview
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka’s decision to send an inexperienced squad to the Asian Games Men’s T20I is understandable, given that their best players are preparing for the ICC World Cup 2023 in India. The disparity in bench strength between Sri Lanka and their cricket powerhouse neighbor, India, is evident. Sri Lanka’s 15-member squad includes only four players with prior international experience.
Ashen Badara, part of the 2022 T20 World Cup squad, is now the most experienced batter in this side. Despite debuting in 2021 on Sri Lanka’s tour of the Windies, he is yet to make a significant impact. Nuwanidu Fernando, who marked his ODI debut earlier this year with a fifty against India, will be another key batsman in Sri Lanka’s lineup. Expect Fernando to open the innings.
Skipper Sahan Arachchige, who impressed with a fifty in the only ODI he played, will occupy the number 4 spot. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack will see a complete makeover, with Nuwan Thushara leading the pace department.
Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI: Nuwani Fernando, Ahan Wickramsinghe, Ravindu Fernando, Sahan Arachchige (c), Lahiru Udara (wk), Nimesh Vimukthi, Lahiru Samarakoon, Vijayankanth Viyaskanth, Nuwan Thushara, Ranitha Liyanarachchi, Isitha Wijesundera
Afghanistan Preview
Gulbadin Naib, one of Afghanistan’s senior-most players, leads the T20I side at the Asian Games. A reliable all-rounder, Naib has consistently delivered with the ball. The vice-captain, Mohammad Shahzad, adds firepower to the top order with his aggressive wicket-keeping and batting skills. Shahzad’s ability to provide explosive starts has been vital for Afghanistan.
Afzar Zazai, another wicket-keeper batsman, is set to play a crucial role in the middle order. Having started his domestic career at just 16, Zazai brings a wealth of experience. Noor Ali Zadran is expected to partner Mohammad Shahzad at the top.
While Afghanistan may not boast a strong batting lineup, they have a plethora of bowlers and all-rounders. Karim Janat, known for his big-hitting ability and impressive bowling, is a key player to watch out for.
Right-arm leg-break bowler Qais Ahmed, who has made a name for himself in top T20 leagues worldwide, is the linchpin of Afghanistan’s bowling attack. With a well-balanced squad, Afghanistan poses a significant threat to any team in the tournament.
Afghanistan Predicted Playing XI: Mohammad Shahzad (wk), Noor Ali Zadran, Shahidullah, Sediqullah Atal, Afzar Zazai, Gulbadin Naib (c), Karim Janat, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Sayed Shirzad, Qais Ahmed, Zahir Khan
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Pingfeng Campus Cricket Field in Hangzhou offers a balanced pitch where both batsmen and bowlers have excelled. In recent matches, teams have posted scores exceeding 250, while bowlers have restricted opponents to as low as 74 runs. Spinners will find assistance, and pacers can be effective with well-executed cutters.
The weather forecast for the match day indicates partly cloudy conditions with a high of 29 degrees Celsius, setting the stage for an exciting contest.
Toss: A Crucial Decision
Considering the presence of promising spinners in both teams’ bowling attacks, bowling first is the preferred strategy in this contest. On a good day, these spinners could bundle up the opposition for a par score.
SL vs AFG Match Prediction:
As Sri Lanka fields an inexperienced team with several players making their international debut, Afghanistan, with its strong squad featuring T20 stars, holds a clear advantage. They have players who have performed on the world stage, making them the favorites in this quarterfinal clash.
Prediction: Afghanistan to Win
Both the teams will look ahead to book a spot in the Asian Games 2023 semi-finals expect a zealous competition on the plate for the fans & viewers.
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