In 2014, Sri Lanka and South Africa savored victories in the the men’s World T20 and the u-19 World Cup, respectively, but since then, both teams have struggled to make a mark on the global stage. Despite producing standout players, they have failed to form formidable teams in ICC tournaments over the past decade. However, with the 2024 T20 World Cup underway, there’s hope for a turnaround. A glimpse of what’s to come was seen in a low-scoring warm-up match, hinting at challenging conditions for batsmen reminiscent of the 2014 era.
SL vs SA: Nassau County International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
New York pitches offer a challenging environment for T20 cricket, characterized by two-paced wickets and slow outfield conditions. Unlike typical T20 tracks, the ball doesn’t come onto the bat smoothly, providing an advantage to bowlers who rarely find such assistance globally. Swing bowlers particularly thrive here with early seam movement, posing difficulties for opening batsmen. Wristy batters like David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen from South Africa could prove crucial on such surfaces.
SL vs SA: T20 World Cup 2024 Squads
Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga(c), Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage
South Africa Squad: Quinton de Kock(w), Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram(c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Ottneil Baartman, Bjorn Fortuin