India is all set to take on the Sri Lanka in Match 33 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Thursday, November 2 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Both the teams have a star-studded squad that can change the course of the game with their abilities. India is the favourite to win this encounter against Sri Lanka.
India and Sri Lanka have a fierce rivalry in the format. Both teams have played 167 ODI matches, with India winning 98 games and Sri Lanka winning 57 games so far in the head to head encounters. In this article, we will take a look at the key player battles to watch out for in the match 33 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 between India vs Sri Lanka.
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Here are three player battles to watch out for during IND vs SL match:
1) Rohit Sharma vs Dilshan Madushanka
Rohit Sharma’s exceptional performance in the 2023 World Cup has made him India’s top run-scorer with 398 runs in six innings, displaying adaptability and composure in addition to his usual aggression. His recent composed 87 against England showed his versatility, and India hopes to ride on his golden run throughout the World Cup. Facing him, pacer Dilshan Madushanka, Sri Lanka’s primary wicket-taker in the tournament with 13 wickets, will aim to take an early wicket and put India under pressure.
2) Pathum Nissanka vs Mohammed Shami
Opener Pathum Nissanka’s wonderful form in the ongoing World Cup has seen him amass 289 runs in six innings with four consecutive fifties, making him a key asset for Sri Lanka. His tussle with Indian pacers, particularly Mohammed Shami, who has been exceptional with 9 wickets in two matches, will be crucial in the match against India.
3) Virat Kohli vs Maheesh Theekshana
Virat Kohli, despite a rare failure against England, remains in sublime form for India with 354 runs at an average of 88.50 in the World Cup. He will aim to get back to his run-scoring ways. Sri Lankan off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana has struggled to make an impact with only three wickets in five matches. Theekshana’s performance, especially against Kohli, could be the defining battle in the upcoming match.