Cricket fans in Asia eagerly await the anticipated clash between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the 1st ODI of their 3-match series, to be held in Chattogram. Following a thrilling bout in the T20Is, the ODI leg promises a riveting spectacle, laden with potential twists and turns.
In recent head-to-head encounters, Sri Lanka has held a slight edge, clinching victory thrice out of their last 5 meetings, while Bangladesh has emerged triumphant on two occasions. Sri Lanka came into the picture after winning the T20I series 2-1.
The search for a long-term skipper adds an extra layer of intrigue, ensuring that each match in this series becomes pivotal in shaping the future trajectory of these teams. The top betting sites in India are providing great odds for this high-stake encounter.
Considering the aggressive bowling lineups of both teams, coupled with conducive pitch conditions, it's likely that the total wickets in the match will exceed 14.5.
The betting tip is...
Total wickets in the match over 14.5
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emerges as a formidable force, leading the charge with his impressive recent form. With a staggering 881 runs amassed in the last year across 23 innings, averaging 41.95, he stands as Bangladesh's leading run-scorer in ODIs.
Following closely are Mushfiqur Rahim, exhibiting consistency with 756 runs at an average of 37.80, and Towhid Hridoy, contributing 727 runs at an average of 34.61.
Meanwhile, in the bowling arsenal, Shoriful Islam emerges as a potent threat, having clinched 32 wickets in 19 innings over the past year, with Taskin Ahmed closely trailing with 22 scalps in 15 innings.
The seasoned Mustafizur Rahman's expertise adds to Bangladesh's bowling prowess, while Rishad Hossain's emergence as a leg-spin hope signals the team's evolving dynamics, especially in light of Shakib's absence, which presents opportunities for others to shine.
Shanto, Rahim and Sarkar are the key batters.
Predicted Lineup: Hridoy, Sarkar, Shanto (c), Das, Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Hasan Miraz, Hossain, Ahmed, Islam, Rahman
Spearheading Sri Lankaβs batting lineup is the dynamic duo of Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando, known for their explosive stroke play and ability to anchor the innings. Sadeera Samarawickrama and Charith Asalanka add depth to the middle order, ready to capitalize on any opportunity that comes their way.
In the bowling department, the likes of Dilshan Madushanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana bring variety and guile to the attack, capable of wreaking havoc on any surface.
Meanwhile, the pace battery led by Dushmantha Chameera promises to unleash fiery spells, keeping the opposition on their toes throughout the match. Pathirana was ruled out of the third T20I with a hamstring injury.
Theekshana and Hasaranga are the key bowlers.
Predicted Lineup: Fernando, Nissanka, Mendis (c, wk), Samarawickrama, Asalanka, Hasaranga, Dananjaya, Madushanka, Theekshana, Chameera, Madushan
With both teams boasting formidable lineups, the 1st ODI between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka promises to be a closely contested affair. Bangladesh, led by the prolific Najmul Shanto, enters the match with a strong batting unit, complemented by an impressive bowling attack spearheaded by Shoriful Islam and Mustafizur Rahman.
However, Sri Lanka, buoyed by their recent T20I series victory, will rely on the explosive batting prowess of Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando, supported by a versatile bowling lineup led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera.
Expect a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for supremacy in a bid to gain early momentum in the series. Ultimately, Sri Lanka might have a slight edge given their recent form, but the hosts won't go down without a fight.