Asian giant Sri Lanka is the only team that defeated Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates – a feat that was considered out of any team’s grasp. The Lankan team is a young team which has still not recovered from the exit of legendary players like Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardena. But, Sri Lanka have shown mental strength to outclass a formidable Pakistan in their adopted backyard.
The Lankan team is now ready for their Test against India. India is a team that whitewashed Sri Lanka in their backyard in 2017 and that will certainly play on the Lankan cricketers’ minds ahead of the series. To outclass India in their backyard is a feat very few teams have achieved hence it will be difficult for the Lankans, but not out of their reach.
Sri Lanka has never won a Test match against India on Indian soil and that should motivate them to do it this time around. They are scheduled to play India in a 3-match Test series starting November 16.
We list out reasons why Sri Lankans would be no pushovers this time:
1. Dickwella and his double
Dickwella is not only an attacking batsman at the top of the order but also a cricketer who adds value by donning the gloves. He has to be the standout performer for the Asian giants in 2017. He has played 12 Tests so far with an impressive average of 35.85.
2. Indian cricketers & their lack of match practice
The weariness of some Indian players is something the visiting team can utilise. Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, for various reasons, have not played international cricket of late. Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav, who were not a part of the Indian ODI team have also not been able to do match practice and that could get exploited.
3. Captain Chandimal’s rise
Sri Lankan captain Dinesh Chandimal has emerged as one of the most reliable players in the team and he also doubles up as a captain. The batsman scored a total of 224 runs with a superb knock of 155 not out in the first test match at Abu Dhabi and led by example.
4. Dimuth Dependable
Among the umpteen openers the Lankans have tried, Karunaratne seems to fit into that role better than the rest. In the UAE where he was the Man of the Series, with a total tally of 306 runs which included a fantastic knock of 196 runs. So, he is in form and that could trouble the Indians who are so used to decimating sides in their own backyard.
5. The Rangana Rule:
The old warhorse, Rangana Herath has emerged as the leading spinner since Muralitharan called it a day. Today, he is the biggest trump card for the visitors. He recently became the oldest spinner at the age of 39 years to enter the 400 wicket club. Recently, he spun a web around the Pakistan team in the UAE with a total tally of 16 wickets in the series leading to a series win for Sri Lanka.
With the first Test a week away, it seems both the teams are well-balanced and we could be in for a riveting contest between the sides.
