Match Prediction:
Following an exhilarating triumph in the second ODI, Sri Lanka will attempt to clinch the series on Thursday when it hosts Zimbabwe for the final match of the three-match ODI series. The venue for the encounter is R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Winning Chances:
Toss Prediction:
Both teams have won one toss and batted first in the series. We expect both captains to bat first again in this last ODI if they win the toss.
Weather Report:
Conditions are expected to be cloudy for the first three days, with a high probability of precipitation on Thursday. The last two days, nevertheless, are anticipated to be warm and sunny.
Pitch Report:
Batting on the ground at R. Premadasa Stadium is not simple. Given the somewhat overcast conditions and the slight irregularity of the new ball, seamers can anticipate a considerable amount of movement. Batsmen will be required to exercise patient.
It is probable that the spinners will also receive assistance as the ball ages and becomes gentler. Pursuing anything in excess of 250 will prove difficult on this terrain.
The day will continue to be mild and humid, with intermittent precipitation.
Head to Head:
To date, both teams have met in 63 One-Day Internationals. With 48 victories, Sri Lanka is the far more dominant team, with Zimbabwe having secured 12 victories and three matches ending in a draw.
Sri Lanka Preview:
Sri Lanka has begun the new year on a positive note by defeating Zimbabwe, albeit in a thrilling encounter, following a turbulent year in 2023.
Particularly effective were the spinners, as the host team restricted the visitors to 208 runs with their clinical bowling. The bowlers were led by Maheesh Theekshana, who took four wickets for a mere 31 runs. He was effectively backed by Jeffrey Vandersay, who maintained the opposition’s pressure with two wickets and a precise line and length of delivery.
The team anticipates that Dilshan Madushanka and Dushmantha Chameera will replicate their effective performance with the new ball in this match. Nevertheless, there is scope for enhancement with regard to the batting.
Sri Lanka Squad Predicted:
Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (c) (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Sahan Arachchige, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka
Zimbabwe Preview:
Zimbabwe, despite putting forth a valiant effort in the second ODI on Monday, will be quite disheartened with their defeat. Nonetheless, the team will attempt to even the series by triumphing on Thursday and will focus on the positive aspects of that match.
With the bat, captain Craig Ervine was in splendid form, amassing 82 runs on a challenging surface. He will be the pivotal player for the visitors once more. Joylord Gumbie, Ryan Burl, and Milton Shumba have all gotten off to strong starts and will each be aiming for a large inning in this contest.
Sikandar Raza and Tinashe Kamunhukamwe were observed to be having difficulty. Richard Ngarava bowled exceptionally well during his ten overs, taking five wickets for a mere 32 runs. In addition to Faraz Akram and Blessing Muzarabani, he will lead the tempo attack.
Zimbabwe Squad Predicted
Joylord Gumbie (wk), Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Craig Ervine (c), Milton Shumba, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Clive Madande (wk), Faraz Akram, Blessing Muzarabani, Tony Munyonga, Tapiwa Mufudza
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Prediction:
Because of the weather in the first ODI on Saturday, this series is still alive before the last game. Zimbabwe had some great chances in the second match and looked like winning and taking a 1-0 series lead. Sri Lanka has a lot of experience, therefore we anticipate them to win the series 2-0 again.
