DAMBULLA: (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka will look to carry their recent momentum into the Ritzbury Sri Lanka vs New Zealand T20I series, starting today at 7.30 PM in Dambulla. However, unpredictable weather conditions could play a decisive role in their opening encounter against a relatively fresh New Zealand side, led by Mitchell Santner.
Sri Lanka has not won a T20 series against New Zealand since their last victory in 2013, under the leadership of Dinesh Chandimal. This time, the hosts are aiming to break that drought and topple the Kiwis, who are always a formidable force in the shortest format of the game.
“We are relying on our spinners, and that’s our strength,” said Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka in a pre-match press conference. “But with the weather conditions in play, we might need to consider an extra fast bowler.”
Asalanka emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in order to climb up the ICC rankings. “Our goal is to be among the top three in the rankings, and to show that we can win consistently. If we achieve that, we will be able to face top teams in future ICC events, just like we did before 2014 when Sri Lanka regularly made it to the semi-finals.”
Asalanka also outlined a long-term strategy to build a strong squad for the future. “We want to create a solid 15-man squad with a strong starting XI, as well as a competitive bench. This will ensure that every player is pushing to perform, even when not in the playing XI.”
The fitness of key players, especially fast bowler Asitha Fernando, is crucial for Sri Lanka. “Asitha’s health is vital for both Test and white-ball cricket. We are managing his workload carefully with input from the coaches and physios,” said Asalanka, adding that Fernando’s fitness is a plus compared to other bowlers.
As for the Twenty20 World Cup in 2026, Asalanka confirmed that Bhanuka Rajapaksa will play a key role. “Bhanuka has committed to the next T20 World Cup, and we see his efforts in the field as well as with the bat. His ability to score quickly makes him a key player for us, especially in the middle order.”
Historically, Sri Lanka has faced New Zealand in 23 T20 matches, with Sri Lanka winning just seven, while the Kiwis have won 13. In Sri Lanka, the Kiwis have won four out of eight encounters. However, Sri Lanka’s recent form and home advantage give them confidence going into the series.
With rain likely to impact the Dambulla pitch, winning the toss and setting a decent total will be crucial for both teams. The dew factor at night could affect the chasing side, while any rain delays could bring the Duckworth-Lewis method into play, adding an extra layer of uncertainty to the outcome.
Squads:
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (captain), Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Kusal Perera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dunith Wellalage, Chamindu Wickramasinghe.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zakary Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Mitchell Hay, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Will Young.
