Pakistan is all set to take on the Sri Lanka in Match 8 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Tuesday, October 10 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Both the teams have a star-studded squad that can change the course of the game with their abilities. Pakistan is the favourite to win this encounter against Sri Lanka.
Pakistan and Sri Lanka have a fierce rivalry in the format. Both teams have played 156 ODI matches, with Pakistan winning all 92 games and Sri Lanka winning 59 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 8 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 3 Players to Avoid in Your Fantasy Team for Today Match
Here are three player battles to keep an eye on during the PAK vs SL match:
1) Haris Rauf vs Charith Asalanka
Another exciting battle to keep an eye on during the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan match is between Haris Rauf and Charith Asalanka. Rauf showcased his skills by taking three wickets against the Netherlands. Sri Lanka’s Charith Asalanka, who scored an impressive 79 off 65 deliveries in their previous match against South Africa, is a crafty middle-order batsman. Sri Lanka will rely on Asalanaka’s form to have a chance in the ODI World Cup 2023.
2) Mohammed Rizwan vs Dunith Wellalage
Mohammed Rizwan is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to keep the scoreboard ticking. Rizwan’s presence in the middle order is crucial for Pakistan, especially when the top order is struggling. However, Rizwan will have to be at his best when facing Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage, who can exploit the conditions in Hyderabad to his advantage.
3) Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Kusal Mendis
Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, had a good outing in their opening match against the Netherlands. However, Afridi is yet to replicate the skills he has displayed in previous World Cup games. He faces a formidable opponent in Kusal Mendis, an aggressive batsman who showcased his blistering form against South Africa with a rapid 76 off 42 balls, including eight sixes. This battle between the two promises to be an exciting contest.