Australia‘s star batter, Steve Smith, has been omitted from the playing XI for the first T20I against New Zealand, signaling a potential change in strategy for the team. Despite his impressive performances in Test and ODI cricket, Smith’s struggles in the T20 format have led to his exclusion. With a modest average of 25.69 and a strike rate of 125.17 in 65 T20Is, Smith’s place in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup could be in jeopardy.

Mitchell Marsh’s reaction on Steve Smith’s place in the Australian team

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh emphasized the team’s focus on winning the series against New Zealand while hinting at experimenting with different combinations. Marsh acknowledged the importance of finding the right balance ahead of the T20 World Cup, suggesting that Smith’s absence in the playing XI is part of the team’s strategy to finalize their best lineup for the tournament.

“There will be certain guys that probably bat in different positions than they have done in the past, but ultimately we’re here to win the series,” Marsh said in response to a query about Smith’s role vs NZ, as quoted by cricket.com.au.

Also READ: NZ vs AUS 2024, T20I Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, New Zealand, USA & other countries

Michael Vaughan has his say on Steve Smith’s role in the T20I side

Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan weighed in on Smith’s role in the T20 side, emphasizing the importance of utilizing him as an opener for maximum impact. Vaughan suggested that Smith’s ability to capitalize on the field restrictions during the powerplay overs makes him a valuable asset at the top of the order. However, Vaughan expressed doubts about Smith’s effectiveness in the middle order, highlighting the need for players who can accelerate the scoring rate in the latter stages of the innings.

“I think his only position really is to open, because he has the skill in the game to maximise that first six overs brilliantly. He is a skilful player. But if he is not going to open, I don’t think he should play. If you are going to play him, he bats in the top two, and that is great. He will face 50 balls and get you an 80 or 90,” stated Vaughan in his conversation with the Fox Sports.

“If he is not going to open, I don’t see him having an impact in the middle order after the powerplay. You need people who can whack it into the stands from (overs) six to 20. He can do that once he is in, but I think he is a better player in the first six (overs) when there are only two men outside the circle,” the ex-England skipper added.

Also READ: IND vs ENG – Jasprit Bumrah rested for Ranchi Test; here is India’s updated squad

After an impressive outing in the BBL 2022-23 season for Sydney Sixers, he opened the batting for Australia in the T20I series versus India, scoring a 41-ball 52 in the first outing, followed by 19 in the second.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

In a heartwarming turn of events, India’s cricket ace Virat Kohli and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma have been blessed with a baby boy, marking the arrival of another bundle of joy to their family. The couple, known for their charisma on and off the field, took to social media to share the delightful news, sending waves of joy and congratulations from fans and well-wishers across the globe.

Virat Kohli’s official announcement

The power couple shared the joyous news of their expanding family on various social media platforms through an emotional post on Tuesday, confirming the birth of their baby boy on February 15. The newborn has been lovingly named ‘Akaay,’ adding to the Kohli-Sharma family, which already includes their adorable daughter ‘Vamika.’ The announcement was met with an outpouring of love and blessings from fans and fellow celebrities.

❤️ pic.twitter.com/BgpfycayI4

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) February 20, 2024

Decoding Kohli’s cricketing prospect and return to the field

As Kohli once again embraces the role of a proud father, there are notable implications for his cricketing journey. The stalwart cricketer has made the decision to opt out of the England tour to India 2024, prioritizing family time during this joyous occasion. This choice reflects his commitment to balancing his professional and personal life, showcasing his values.

With the birth of ‘Akaay,’ cricket enthusiasts are left to wonder about Kohli’s future engagements on the field. While he temporarily steps away from international cricket, fans can eagerly anticipate his return to the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) juggernaut is expected to make a dynamic comeback in the upcoming IPL season, bringing his leadership and cricketing prowess to the fore.

Also READ – Anushka Sharma gives birth to a baby boy; Virat Kohli reveals the name of their second child

Here is how Twitter reacted:

Congratulations to Virat and Anushka on the arrival of Akaay, a precious addition to your beautiful family! Just like his name lights up the room, may he fill your world with endless joy and laughter. Here's to the adventures and memories you'll cherish forever. Welcome to the… https://t.co/kjuoUtQ5WB

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 20, 2024

Congratulations to both of you. May god bless AKAAY with long life and abundance of happiness ❤️

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) February 20, 2024

And then there are four 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🤩

Many congratulations to Anushka and Virat, and a big welcome to the youngest member of the RCB family, Akaay 🤗❤️

This is such a happy news and India will sleep well tonight 😇#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB @AnushkaSharma @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/2hDYE4TGd6

— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) February 20, 2024

Congratulations to @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma on the arrival of your little bundle of joy, baby boy #Akaay. May this new chapter be filled with love, joy, and countless precious moments. Wishing your family a lifetime of happiness and laughter!

— Thakur Arun Singh (@ThakurArunS) February 21, 2024

Congratulations @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma for the Baby 👦 Boy .. Waheguru sehat te tandrusti bakshe ❤️❤️

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) February 20, 2024

Congratulations to @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma on the arrival of their baby boy!

Wishing your little bundle of joy a lifetime filled with love, laughter, and endless blessings ❤️ https://t.co/hfqIwSbG8L

— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) February 20, 2024

Congratulations @AnushkaSharma & @imVkohli for a Baby 👶 pic.twitter.com/llbOi63UjG

— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) February 20, 2024

Congratulations @imVkohli on the birth of Baby Kohli 👶 pic.twitter.com/ThUvggua61

— England's Barmy Army 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) February 20, 2024

Congratulations to both of you. Lots of love to Akaay. @imVkohli @AnushkaSharma https://t.co/ML3O6VXG9v

— Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) February 20, 2024

Very happy for @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma. Wish you lots of happiness and may Akaay fill your lives with an abundance of joy.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 20, 2024

Many congratulations to @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma on the arrival of their baby boy Akaay! May your beautiful family be blessed with good health and happiness always. #ViratKohli

— Rajat Sharma (@RajatSharmaLive) February 21, 2024

More to the King’s Pride! Congratulations! 🦁💛 @imVkohli @AnushkaSharma pic.twitter.com/5RmcH1cPxe

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 20, 2024

Also READ – IND vs ENG: Jasprit Bumrah rested for Ranchi Test; here is India’s updated squad

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

India‘s decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the fourth Test against England underscores the team management’s strategic approach towards managing the workload of their premier fast bowler. Bumrah’s workload has been substantial, considering his pivotal role in the team across all formats, and the BCCI’s decision aims to ensure his long-term fitness and performance sustainability.

Who will fill the vacant spot left by Jasprit Bumrah?

Bumrah’s absence will pose a significant challenge for India, as he has been the standout performer with the ball in the series so far. He has picked up 17 wickets at an average of 13.64 in six innings. His ability to generate pace, seam movement and pinpoint accuracy has troubled the English batters consistently. With Bumrah unavailable, India will have to rely on their other pace options to step up and fill the void left by the star pacer.

In Bumrah’s absence, the responsibility of leading the Indian pace attack fall on the shoulders of young gun Mohammed Siraj, who will either assisted by Mukesh Kumar or Akash Deep.  These bowlers will need to elevate their performances and provide crucial breakthroughs to maintain India’s 2-1 in the series.

KL Rahul continues to sit out

Additionally, KL Rahul‘s continued absence due to injury further complicates India’s team selection dilemma. Rahul’s solidity in the middle order has been missed, and his absence has forced India to make adjustments to their batting lineup.

On a positive note, the return of fast bowler Mukesh Kumar adds depth to India’s pace bowling resources. Kumar’s ability to generate pace and movement can offer valuable support to the frontline bowlers and provide India with additional options to exploit England’s batting lineup.

Also READ: Photos – Check out Yashasvi Jaiswal’s lavish and European-style apartment in Mumbai

Heading into the fourth Test in Ranchi, India will look to build on their momentum from the previous victory in Rajkot. However, the absence of Bumrah and Rahul underscores the challenges they will face against a determined English side keen to level the series. The team management will need to make calculated decisions and ensure that the players are adequately prepared to maintain India’s dominance on home turf.

India squad for the fourth Test against England:

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep

Also READ: Anushka Sharma gives birth to a baby boy; Virat Kohli reveals the name of their second child

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

Multan Sultans are set to take on Lahore Qalandars in the 7th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 on Wednesday, February 21. The contest is scheduled to be held at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan.

In their previous match, the Multan registered a victory by five wickets against Islamabad United, led by Shadab Khan. On the contrary, the Lahore faced a setback with a five-wicket defeat against Quetta Gladiators in their recent encounter.

PSL 2024, Match 7:

• Date and time: February 21; 02:00 pm GMT/ 07:30 pm IST/ 07:00 pm local
• Venue: Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan.

Multan Cricket Stadium Pitch Report:

The Multan Cricket Stadium is renowned for its batters-friendly pitch, providing an ideal setting for batting with its consistently flat and dry surface. The track poses challenges for seam bowlers due to conditions that do not align with their typical style of play. Nevertheless, as the match advances, spinners are expected to play a pivotal role, leveraging the evolving conditions to their benefit.

MUL vs LAH Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeepers: Mohammad Rizwan, Sahibzada Farhan
• Batters: Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Abdullah Shafique
• All-rounders: Sikandar Raza, Salman Fayyaz, Khushdil Shah
• Bowlers: David Willey, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi

MUL vs LAH Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

• Choice 1: Sikandar Raza (c), Reeza Hendricks (vc)
• Choice 2: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Shaheen Afridi (vc)

Also READ: Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024: Broadcast and Live Streaming details – When & Where to Watch in India, Pakistan, Australia, US, UK & other countries

MUL vs LAH Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Jahandad Khan, Haris Rauf

MUL vs LAH Dream11 Team for today’s match (Feb 21, 02:00 pm GMT):

Squads:

Multan Sultans: Mohammad Rizwan (wk/c), Dawid Malan, Reeza Hendricks, Khushdil Shah, Yasir Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, David Willey, Usama Mir, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Shahnawaz Dahani, Usman Khan, Chris Jordan, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Shahzad, Faisal Akram, Aftab Ibrahim

Lahore Qalandars: Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Abdullah Shafique, David Wiese, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Salman Fayyaz, Shaheen Afridi (c), Jahandad Khan, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Imran, Ahsan Bhatti, Tayyab Abbas, Syed Faridoun, Mirza Tahir Baig, Sikandar Raza, Carlos Brathwaite

Also READ: PSL 2024: Fans tease Shoaib Malik’s third wife Sana Javed with Sania Mirza chants in Multan Cricket Stadium; video goes viral

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

The ascent of the young Indian cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal from the humble tents of Azad Maidan to the esteemed Indian cricket team has been nothing short of extraordinary. Yashasvi, who encountered numerous challenges in his pursuit of realizing his cricketing dreams, left no stone unturned in carving out a name for himself and achieving the honour of representing India at the highest level.

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s remarkable journey

Transitioning from school-level tournaments to Mumbai‘s domestic team and subsequently making his mark with the Rajasthan Royals in IPL, Yashasvi has navigated a golden path despite the adversities he faced. His journey has seen him debut for India across all three formats, and making the most of the opportunity with phenomenal performances and leaving spectators awestruck.

Ascent from living in tents to owing a luxurious abode

From enduring the hardships of not having a home in Mumbai to the impressive rise in his living standards recently, Yashasvi’s perseverance and determination have transformed not only his cricketing career but also his lifestyle. The young lad, who once grappled with the challenges of daily survival, now boasts a luxurious 5-BHK apartment in Mumbai adorned with exquisite interiors and designs, which truly is a testament to his well-deserved success.

Inside Yashasvi’s lavish apartment

A home that reflects success

Yashasvi’s luxurious residence, nestled in the vibrant city of Mumbai, stands as a symbol of his accomplishments. Spread across 1,500 square feet, the house boasts a European-style design crafted by Mcasa Studio, offering a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

European elegance at its finest

As one steps into Yashasvi’s abode, the simple yet exquisite door adorned with a ‘YBJ 19’ nameplate sets the tone for the grace that follows. The living room, featuring custom white sofas and a sleek television, exudes simplicity and beauty. The carefully chosen window with customized curtains adds a touch of luxury to the space.

Also READ: A sneak peek into Mohammed Shami’s luxurious farmhouse in Amroha that features cricketing pitches and much more

Seamless integration of spaces

The open modular kitchen seamlessly integrates with the living room, showcasing stylish marbles that contribute to the overall European aesthetic. The serving counter enhances the beauty of the kitchen, creating a harmonious space for culinary delights. The dining room, adorned with European-style lights, completes the elegance of the house, providing a perfect setting for shared meals and gatherings.

Comfort and class in every corner

The bedrooms and bathrooms in the house have also been meticulously designed to offer a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The interiors reflect a keen eye for detail, creating a living space that radiates sophistication and royal charm.

Also READ: The ’12th Fail’ fame actor Vikrant Massey picks his all-time favourite cricketer

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

New Zealand will take on Australia in the first T20I of the three match series on Wednesday. The encounter will take place at the Sky Stadium in Wellington.

The Black Caps, under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, are keen to demonstrate their strength on home turf as they confront the Aussies. Santner, recognized for his spin bowling skills and valuable contributions with the bat, is determined to guide his team to success against the formidable Australian side.

Meanwhile, Australia will be captained by all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. With his dynamic batting prowess and effective medium-pace bowling, Marsh aims to leave a mark as he leads his team in the shortest format of the game.

T20I Stats and Records at Hagley Oval:

• Total matches: 21
• Matches won batting first: 10
• Matches won bowling first: 11
• Average first innings scores: 150
• Average second innings scores: 125
• Highest total recorded: 219/6 (20 Overs) by New Zealand vs India
• Lowest total recorded: 73/10 (15.3 Overs) by Australia Women vs New Zealand Women
• Highest score chased: 169/6 (19 Overs) by New Zealand vs West Indies
• Lowest score defended: 128/9 (20 Overs) by England Women vs New Zealand Women

Sky Stadium Pitch Report:

The playing surface at Sky Stadium tends to favour both batters and spin bowlers.

Historically, there has been little disparity in success between teams batting first and second at this venue. As a result, the outcome of the toss is unlikely to significantly influence the outcome of the contest.

Also READ: New Zealand vs Australia 2024, T20I Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA & other countries

Wellington Weather Forecast:

The weather outlook for the series opener in Wellington guarantees optimal playing conditions. No rain is predicted, ensuring a dry and uninterrupted match. With the humidity level expected to be a comfortable 53%, both players and spectators can expect a pleasant atmosphere. Additionally, a gentle breeze of 24 kilometers per hour is forecasted, offering a refreshing airflow across the ground. These favourable weather conditions set the stage for an exciting and uninterrupted cricket match.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I, Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand: Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wk), Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Adam Milne

Australia: David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (c), Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Matthew Wade (wk), Tim David, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa

Also READ: NZ vs AUS 2024, 1st T20I – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | New Zealand vs Australia 2024

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

Sri Lanka are gearing up to take on Afghanistan in the final encounter of the three-match T20I series of Afghanistan tour to Sri Lanka 2024. The contest is set to take place at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Wednesday.

The Islanders are leading the series by an unbeatable margin of 2-0 and will look forward to whitewash the visitors. On the flip side, the Afghans will be focused on registering a consolatory win in the series and ending their tour on a positive note.

Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 3rd T20I:

• Date and Time: February 21, 2024, 7:00 pm local time/ 01:30 pm GMT/ 07:00 pm IST
• Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report:

The cricket pitch at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla predominantly favours batters, creating conditions conducive to their performance. Known for substantial turn and bounce, the track provides a notable advantage for spinners who can capitalize on these conditions. Teams winning the toss often opt to bowl first at this venue, expecting bowlers to exploit opportunities and limit the opposing team’s batting performance, given the nature of the pitch.

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicket-keepers: Kusal Mendis, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sadeera Samarawickrama
• Batters: Ibrahim Zadran, Dasun Shanaka
• All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Angelo Mathews, Azmatullah Omarzai
• Bowlers: Fazalhaq Farooqi, Matheesha Pathirana

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

• Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Angelo Mathews (vc)
• Choice 2: Sadeera Samarawickrama (c), Matheesha Pathirana (vc)

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, T20I series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Naveen-ul-Haq, Pathum Nissanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Gulbadin Naib

SL vs AFG Dream11 Team for today’s match (Feb 21, 01:30 pm GMT)

Also READ: Fastest men’s players to take 100 wickets in T20Is

Squads:

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Dilshan Madushanka, Akila Dananjaya, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Najibullah Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Wafadar Momand, Mohammad Ishaq.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

Celebrity couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, who have long been the centre of media attention, joyously welcomed their second child into the world on Tuesday, February 15. Sharing the heartwarming news on their respective social media accounts, the couple expressed their immense happiness and gratitude.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma blessed with a baby boy

In a touching Instagram post, Virat announced the arrival of their baby boy, sharing the joyous news with their millions of followers. With overflowing love in their hearts, the couple introduced their newborn son, Akaay, as the younger brother to their firstborn, Vamika. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them during this special time and kindly requested privacy as they cherish the moments with their growing family.

“With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika’s little brother into this world! We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love & Gratitude. Virat & Anushka,”  wrote Virat in his Instagram post.

Wishes pour in for Virushka

The announcement swiftly garnered an outpouring of love and well-wishes from fans, friends and members of both the film industry and the cricketing world.

Also READ: Rishabh Pant set to return in IPL 2024; participates in a warm-up match for the first time since injury

“And then there are four. Many congratulations to Anushka and Virat, and a big welcome to the youngest member of the RCB family, Akaay. This is such a happy news and India will sleep well tonight,” IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captained their post.

And then there are four 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🤩

Many congratulations to Anushka and Virat, and a big welcome to the youngest member of the RCB family, Akaay 🤗❤️

This is such a happy news and India will sleep well tonight 😇#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB @AnushkaSharma @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/2hDYE4TGd6

— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) February 20, 2024

Notable personalities, including actor Ranveer Singh and actress Rakul Preet Singh, joined in to congratulate the couple and shower them with blessings for their new journey as a family of four.

Virat and Anushka, affectionately known as ‘Virushka’, have been a symbol of love and companionship since their fairytale wedding on December 11, 2017, in a picturesque ceremony held in Italy. Following the birth of their daughter Vamika on January 11, 2021, the couple’s joy has now multiplied with the addition of their precious baby boy.

Also READ: Virat Kohli or Suresh Raina? Wasim Akram, Dale Steyn & other experts pick ideal No. 3 batter of IPL

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

Sri Lanka are gearing up to clash with Afghanistan in the highly anticipated third and final T20I of their thrilling three-match series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Monday, February 21.

Having dominated the series so far with convincing victories in the first two matches, the Lankans are in prime position to clinch a series whitewash. Buoyed by their stellar performances, Sri Lanka will be aiming to maintain their winning streak and secure another triumph on home turf.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan, trailing 0-2 in the series, are determined to salvage some pride with a consolation victory in the final encounter. With their pride at stake, the Afghan side will be eager to put up a strong fight and end the series on a positive note.

T20I stats and records at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium:

• Total matches: 4
• Matches won batting first: 3
• Matches won bowling first: 2
• Average 1st innings scores: 149
• Average 2nd innings scores: 128
• Highest total recorded: 187/6 (20 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan
• Lowest total recorded: 115 (17 overs) by Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka
• Highest score chased: 141/3 (17 Overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs India Women
• Lowest score defended: 160 (19 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan

Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report:

The track at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium favours both batters and bowlers. Initially, the new ball provides conducive bounce, but as the game progresses, spinners are expected to play a more significant role, leveraging the pitch’s ability to offer improved grip and turn.

Also READ: Angelo Mathews, Wanindu Hasaranga all-round show propels Sri Lanka to a resounding win over Afghanistan

Dambulla Weather Forecast:

The weather for the second T20I is expected to be clear with no chance of precipitation. The temperature is projected to reach around 32 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a humidity level of approximately 59%. Additionally, the wind is forecasted to blow at a speed of about 13 kmph.

SL vs AFG, 3rd T20I, Probable Playing XI:

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana

Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Hazratullah Zazai, Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Also READ: Fastest men’s players to take 100 wickets in T20Is

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.