Sri Lanka are gearing up to clash with Afghanistan in the highly anticipated third and final T20I of their thrilling three-match series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Monday, February 21.
Having dominated the series so far with convincing victories in the first two matches, the Lankans are in prime position to clinch a series whitewash. Buoyed by their stellar performances, Sri Lanka will be aiming to maintain their winning streak and secure another triumph on home turf.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan, trailing 0-2 in the series, are determined to salvage some pride with a consolation victory in the final encounter. With their pride at stake, the Afghan side will be eager to put up a strong fight and end the series on a positive note.
T20I stats and records at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium:
- Total matches: 4
- Matches won batting first: 3
- Matches won bowling first: 2
- Average 1st innings scores: 149
- Average 2nd innings scores: 128
- Highest total recorded: 187/6 (20 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan
- Lowest total recorded: 115 (17 overs) by Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka
- Highest score chased: 141/3 (17 Overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs India Women
- Lowest score defended: 160 (19 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report:
The track at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium favours both batters and bowlers. Initially, the new ball provides conducive bounce, but as the game progresses, spinners are expected to play a more significant role, leveraging the pitch’s ability to offer improved grip and turn.
Also READ: Angelo Mathews, Wanindu Hasaranga all-round show propels Sri Lanka to a resounding win over Afghanistan
Dambulla Weather Forecast:
The weather for the second T20I is expected to be clear with no chance of precipitation. The temperature is projected to reach around 32 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a humidity level of approximately 59%. Additionally, the wind is forecasted to blow at a speed of about 13 kmph.
SL vs AFG, 3rd T20I, Probable Playing XI:
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana
Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Hazratullah Zazai, Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi