SL vs ZIM- Sri Lanka’s Predicted Playing XI vs Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Tour of Sri Lanka 2022, 3rd ODI

A brilliant batting effort helped Sri Lanka chase down a 296-run target in the first ODI. However, they couldn’t replicate a similar performance with the bat in the second ODI and, thus lost that game by 22 runs.

The three-match ODI series between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe is currently tied at 1-1. Sri Lanka would look to give their best performance in the series decider. Here’s a look at our predicted playing XI of the Sri Lanka Cricket Team for the third ODI

SL vs ZIM- Sri Lanka’s Predicted Playing XI vs Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Tour of Sri Lanka 2022, 3rd ODI

Openers: Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis

Pathum Nissanka played a valuable 75-run knock off 71 balls in the first ODI, while Mendis scored 26 off 24 balls. Both of them got out on low scores in the last game. The duo ought to get their team off to a great start in a bid to give themselves the best chance to win the game.

Middle-Order: Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, and Charith Asalanka

Kamindu Mendis got out cheaply in the first ODI but played a solid 57-run knock in 82 balls in the second one-day international. This should give him and his team a lot of confidence going into the last match of the series.

The biggest bets in the batting department would, unarguably, be Dinesh Chandimal and Charith Asalanka. Both of them performed admirably in the first game but got out cheaply in the last match. Given that Sri Lanka’s bowling unit has lacked steam in the series, these two players ought to produce significant knocks from the bat.

All-rounders: Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne

Skipper Dasun Shanaka played a sensational knock of 102 runs off 94 balls in the last game. His knock kept Sri Lanka’s hopes alive till the 45th over of the innings. Karunaratne also gave him great support with 34 runs off 38 deliveries. Both should make it into the playing XI.

Bowlers: Chameera, Vandersay, Theekshana and N Pradeep

Vandersay has been the pick of the bowlers for the hosts in the series. He bowled a brilliant spell of 3 for 51 in the last game. Chameera got back into the side in the last game but didn’t get any wicket. He, however, should retain his place in the team. Besides, Theekshana and Pradeep should complete the playing XI.