We have opted for a fantasy cricket team based on the recent performances, overall impact, and credit points.
Pitch Report
Going by the last two white-ball games at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, we can expect another decent batting track.
Weather Report
Like the first ODI, rain is forecast for this game too. Another potential reduction in overs is a strong probability.
Teams
Probable XI for Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, (wk), Danushka Gunathilaka, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Jeffrey Vandersay
Playing XI for Australia: David Warner, Aaron Finch (c), Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head/Cameron Green, Mathew Wade (wk), Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Swepson
Power Players
David Warner experienced a rare failure in the first ODI. However, his recent form should continue to keep him amongst the hot picks in fantasy cricket. When he last played an ODI at Pallekele in 2016, he ended up scoring 106.
Through his wily spin bowling, Wanindu Hasaranga has constantly posed a threat to Australia on this tour. His 4 for 58 almost saw Sri Lanka home in the first ODI.
After a quiet T20 series, Glenn Maxwell responded with a match-winning 81 off 51 balls. Despite batting with the tail, he continued his gutsy hitting to help his side get over the line.
Josh Hazlewood has taken 18 wickets in his last 10 ODIs, owing to which he is ranked No.2 in the ICC Rankings for bowlers.
Sri Lanka will know the importance of dismissing Steven Smith early. He has two hundreds and a fifty in his last five ODI innings.
Smart Picks
An unbeaten 86 at No.3 by Kusal Mendis was one of the main reasons behind Sri Lanka posting a total of 300 in the opening match. He has collected 290 runs at 48 against Australia in ODI cricket.
Following their 115-run partnership in the first ODI, Sri Lanka will expect another solid start from openers Pathum Nissanka and Danushka Gunathilaka.
Pat Cummins might have gone wicketless in the opening fixture, but we all know his ability to pick wickets at crucial junctures of the game. He is also capable of using the long handle to good effect in times of need.
Maheesh Theekshana’s mystery spin bowling will continue to pose a threat for Australia. His ability to keep things tight in the powerplay often keeps him amongst the wickets.
Marnus Labuschagne likes to take time in accumulating runs, but he puts a price on his wicket – an aspect extremely beneficial in fantasy cricket. He also picked two wickets in the last game.
Match Preview
Although Sri Lanka fought well till the end in the opening ODI, Australia held their nerve to cross the line. That said, injuries galore in the camp could put the visitors on the back foot. If Sri Lanka can come up with an all-round performance, they will have a chance to equal the series. Currently, though, Australia have all the momentum.
Time: 16 June, 2.30 PM IST
