Cricket Test Match Analysis: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 1st Test
An exciting duel is on the cards as Sri Lanka hosts Pakistan in the opening Test match of the Pakistan’s tour at Galle International Stadium.
Sitting at the seventh place in the ICC Test Rankings, Sri Lanka steps into the series with renewed self-assurance following their remarkable 2-0 triumph over Ireland. They’re poised to make an impact in the World Test Championship 2023-2025 period, looking to leverage their home ground advantage for a winning start.
On the other hand, Pakistan, currently ranked sixth on the ICC Men’s Test Rankings, has experienced a somewhat lackluster performance in their recent five tests, with three defeats against England and two stalemates against New Zealand. Nevertheless, they are keen to shift the momentum and inaugurate their journey in the World Test Championship on a high.
Schedule: July 16, 2023; 10:00 am IST
Location: Galle International Stadium, Galle
Pitch Conditions at Galle International Stadium
The wicket at Galle International Stadium is forecasted to be in favor of spinners, creating an intriguing contest between bat and ball. Batsmen will need to employ caution and adaptability to tackle the challenging conditions, with spinners expected to play a decisive role in the game.
Weather Expectations
Temperatures are predicted to hover around 30°C, coupled with a 70% possibility of rain and humidity of 81%. Moderate winds of around 19 km/h are expected, with the possibility of scattered thunderstorms.
Likely Teams
Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Praveen Jayawickrama, Dilshan Madushka, Vishwa Fernando
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc & wk), Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi
Match Outcome Prediction
While Sri Lanka’s recent form and home advantage slightly tip the balance in their favor, Pakistan’s skilled team is not one to be underestimated and they’ll be eager for a robust comeback. The encounter is expected to be a tight one, with the outcome possibly hinging on which team adapts better to the conditions and capitalizes on key moments.
Predicted Winner: Sri Lanka
Broadcast and Live Streaming Details
Television: Sony Sports Ten 2 and Sony Sports Ten 2 HD
Online Streaming: Available on SonyLIV and FanCode, both via their respective apps and websites.
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