SL Vs NZ 1st T20I: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report
![Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium [Source: @ICC/X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1731054472207_dambulla_pitch(6).jpg?im=Resize=(650,450))
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium [Source: @ICC/X]
After whitewashing India in a three-match Test series in their backyard, New Zealand are preparing to take on Sri Lanka in a two-match T20I series. Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka have a formidable squad, studded with some outright match-winners.
While Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka will play a crucial role at the top order, skipper Asalanka will spearhead the hosts' middle order along with the in-form Kamindu Mendis, who has enjoyed stellar success in international cricket this year. The eyes will also be on Wanindu Hasaranga, who can bamboozle the Kiwis with his wily wrist spin.
Meanwhile, New Zealand will aim to sustain their purple patch in international cricket. Under Mitchell Santner's leadership, the visitors have announced a robust side that can give the Lankan Lions a run for their money. Apart from Santner, the Blackcaps will heavily rely on Glenn Phillips to spearhead their inexperienced batting unit on Sri Lankan soil.
So, as the stage gets set for a cracking battle, let's see how the surface at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium will behave throughout the match.
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Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Stats And Records In T20Is
| Criterion | Data |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 6 |
| Matches won batting first | 4 |
| Matches won batting second | 2 |
| Average 1st innings score in last 5 games | 180 |
| Average 2nd innings score in last 5 games | 151 |
| Average Runs Per Over | 8.59 |
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report: Batters Or Bowlers, Who Will Be More Successful?
The pitch at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium will primarily assist batters and spinners. There could be a hint of seam movement for the fast bowlers, but the batters can capitalise on the track's even pace and bounce after playing out a couple of overs.
The spinners will get significant help off the surface, making things tough for the batters in the middle overs. Batting generally gets difficult with time in Dambulla. Also, considering the teams batting first have been more successful than the chasing sides here, the toss-winner might be tempted to bat first.
Players To Watch Out For At Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
Pathum Nissanka
- The dynamic opener has impressive numbers in Dambulla, amassing 195 runs at an average of 39 and a strike rate of 154.76 in six T20I outings. So, he could be Sri Lanka's go-to man with the bat.
Glenn Phillips
- Experienced New Zealand cricketer Glenn Phillips is known for his incredible all-round prowess. Besides scoring vital runs down the order, Phillips can chip in with a few overs of off spin.
Matheesha Pathirana
- Sri Lanka's premier fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana could be a threat to New Zealand's batting unit. Pathirana has scalped twelve wickets at an average of 11.83 in six T20Is at this venue.
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