Today Indian team will lock horns with the islanders in the
7th match of the Asia Cup.
BREAKING NEWS !!!!
India have won the toss and opted to Bowl first !!!!
In the two matches India has played, they have coasted to
easy victories against the hosts Bangladesh and against arch rivals Pakistan.
On the other hand, Srilanka have won one match against UAE and lost against the
hosts. Today's clash against India makes it a must game win to make their way
to the summit clash easier else I believe the doors for them will be closed.
On the team front both sides have players who are nursing an
injury. The ace bowler for Srilanka who has been a consistent performer in the
shortest version of the game, the fiery Lasith Malinga sat out due to a
recurring knee injury. This was a big blow to them and they succumbed to a
defeat. Even for today's Malinga inclusion in the playing Eleven is not sure.
Coming to the Indian team, Shikhar Dhawan missed out the
match against Pakistan but we are not yet sure whether he would return for the
match today. Rohit Sharma's inclusion is also under scanner since he suffered a
hit on his left toe but according to the reports, there is no fracture and he
may be available for selection. Apart from Rohit and Shikhar, MSD is also
suffering from back spasms but has played in both the matches.
Going by the recent form, Indian team looks like more
balanced if the injuries are ignored. Rohit has been phenomenal during the last
few matches barring the one against Pakistan, Shikhar also looks good. Virat
Kohli is looking in supreme touch and is ably supported by the likes of Rainas
and Pandyas. On the bowling side Nehra is sensational and provides a lot of
experience to the bowling lineup along with young Jasprit Bumrah. Plenty of
bowling options are there which have Ashwin as the front line spinner who will
be supported by part timers such as Raina and Yuvraj.
Coming to the Lankan team, their opening pair looks shaky as
the senior pro Dilshan is yet to find his touch. Apart from Chandimal's half
century against UAE none of the other batsmen could actually make a mark. In
the game against Bangladesh as well it was the same sorry state with no big
contribution from the batters. On the bowling front, they are already looking
like mighty weak due to Malinga's absence. But they have some big names such as
Perera and Mathews who on their day can demolish the opponents with their all
round abilities.
Finally, it is going to be an interesting clash between
Indian and Srilanka on the cards. Srilanka are hungry for a win and India is
looking to consolidate their position. Few Minutes left for the game to start.
Good luck to both the teams, may the best team emerge
victorious.
