The ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 is all set for Match 30 between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, which will take place on Monday, October 30 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. Afghanistan is led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, while Sri Lanka is captained by Kusal Mendis.
As of now, 11 ODI matches have been played between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, in which Afghanistan has won 3 matches while Sri Lanka has won 7 matches. The Afghanistan team is currently ranked ninth, while the Sri Lanka team is ranked seventh in the ICC ODI rankings.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka Top 3 Players Expected to Perform in Today Match
Here are top five players to watch out during Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka, 30th Match ICC ODI World Cup 2023:
1) Kasun Rajitha
Kasun Rajitha delivered a brilliant spell against England in the last match, making life difficult for the batsmen. He dismissed key players and played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s win. Rajitha will have an essential role, especially with Lahiru Kumara unavailable. His objective is to pick early wickets in the first 10 overs and keep Afghanistan’s run rate in check.
2) Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan displayed superb bowling skills in the previous match against Pakistan, restricting the batsmen’s scoring on a spinner-friendly Chennai pitch. He has an impressive record against Sri Lanka, having taken 11 wickets from 7 matches with an economy of 4.33. Rashid looks to make an impact by picking wickets in the middle overs and controlling Sri Lanka’s scoring.
3) Pathum Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka is in outstanding form, coming off an unbeaten 77 that secured an impressive 8-wicket win for Sri Lanka. His diverse shot-making abilities put immense pressure on opposing bowlers. Nissanka has a strong track record against Afghanistan in ODIs, having amassed 296 runs from 7 matches, including 2 half-centuries. He aims to maintain his superb form and provide a strong start for Sri Lanka, making his World Cup debut against Afghanistan.
4) Ibrahim Zadran
Ibrahim Zadran played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s historic win over Pakistan, forming a century partnership with Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Zadran’s brilliant batting kept the pressure on the Pakistani bowlers, and he holds a fantastic ODI record against Sri Lanka, with 278 runs from 3 matches, including a career-best 162. He looks to forge another strong partnership with Gurbaz and put Sri Lanka’s bowlers under pressure.
5) Sadeera Samawickrama
Sadeera Samawickrama has been in fine form, notching his second consecutive half-century against England. His fearless approach and aggressive play helped Sri Lanka recover from early wickets. Samawickrama is eager to continue his winning streak and ensure Sri Lanka stays in the race for the semi-finals.