The final two matches of Group A will be played on Thursday at the Simonds Stadium, Geelong. The first match of the day – between Sri Lanka and the Netherlands – bears great significance as if Sri Lanka lose this match, they will be all but certain to be knocked out because the second match is between Namibia and UAE, who have lost both the matches and are also unlikely to cause an upset against Namibia.
The Netherlands have won both their matches and will seal a Super 12 spot with a win, while Sri Lanka will only need a win to go over the Netherlands courtesy of their better net run rate and will go through to the Super 12 round. Namibia, who have won one out of 2 matches, will then only need to win their last game against UAE to proceed to the Super 12 because their net run rate is better than both Sri Lanka and the Netherlands.
SL vs NED Pitch report, Date and time
Venue: Simonds Stadium, Geelong
SL vs NED Pitch Report
The pitch in the four matches here was on the slow side with both pacers and seamers enjoying the grip, turn and dryness of the surface. Expect another low-scoring encounter in Geelong.
Date and Time: October 20, 9.30 AM IST
Telecast: Star Sports Network
SL vs NED predicted playing XIs
Sri Lanka have lost their spearhead fast bowler, Dushmantha Chameera, to a calf injury and he’s been ruled out of the tournament. Lahiru Kumara is expected to replace Chameera.
Sri Lanka predicted XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Kumara, Pramod Madushan, Maheesh Theekshana
The Netherlands are expected to stick with their winning combination:
Netherlands predicted XI:
Vikramjit Singh, Max ODowd, Bas de Leede, Colin Ackermann, Tom Cooper, Scott Edwards (c & wk), Roelof van der Merwe, Tim Pringle, Timm van der Gugten, Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren
Today’s match prediction: Sri Lanka to win the match
Despite not having Chameera, Sri Lanka’s bowling attack looks strong, especially with spinners Hasaranga and Theekshana. Netherland’s batting, and in particular their middle-order has struggled to get going with their wins coming on the back of some aggressive top-order batting.
Sri Lanka, who are yet to fire all cylinders with the bat, start as favourites to win this match for us.
Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, knowledge, and instinct of the writer. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
