SL vs AUS Dream11 Prediction: 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices For 1st ODI

Soumyajit Dutta

Steve Smith and Wanindu Hasaranga are among the top choices as fantasy captains [Source: @ICC/X.com]Steve Smith and Wanindu Hasaranga are among the top choices as fantasy captains [Source: @ICC/X.com]

Sri Lanka and Australia will face off in the opening ODI of their two-match series on February 12 at the renowned R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The much-anticipated clash is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM IST.

Sri Lanka

The hosts have been a dominant force in the 50-over format, currently riding a remarkable 10-match winning streak. At home, Sri Lanka has been nearly unbeatable, securing six consecutive bilateral series victories. 

The batting lineup will rely on the experienced trio of Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Charith Asalanka to provide stability at the top. Meanwhile, the spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will be crucial on the turning tracks of Colombo, making them a potent threat against the visitors.

Australia

Australia enters the ODI series brimming with confidence after an emphatic Test series triumph. They secured the second Test with a commanding nine-wicket win, led by centuries from Steve Smith and Alex Carey. 

However, the absence of captain Pat Cummins and pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood leaves gaps in the bowling attack. Mitchell Starc will lead the charge, supported by Nathan Ellis and Sean Abbott. In the batting department, the team will look to experienced names like Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Glenn Maxwell to set the tone.

R Premadasa Stadium - Pitch Report for 1st ODI

The R. Premadasa Stadium is traditionally known for favouring spinners. The pitch offers sharp turn and inconsistent bounce, particularly in the latter stages of the match. In the early overs, batters find it easier to play as the surface maintains a steady bounce with minimal cracks.

However, as the game progresses, conditions become more challenging. The pitch starts to deteriorate, developing cracks and uneven bounce, making stroke play difficult. Spinners will have a significant advantage as the ball grips and turns sharply. Notably, teams batting first have historically enjoyed better success. The toss will play a key role, with both captains likely to prefer setting a total.

Top 3 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices for SL vs AUS

3. Travis Head

Why Will Travis Head Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?

Explosive Batter: Travis Head is known for his aggressive batting approach, making him a valuable pick for fantasy teams. In ODIs, he has amassed 2,645 runs in 69 matches at a blistering strike rate of 104.05. His ability to take on bowlers from the outset and convert starts into big scores adds significant value, especially in limited-overs cricket. With six centuries and 16 half-centuries to his name, Head has proven to be a match-winner in the format.

Impressive Form: Head has been in good touch with the bat, showing consistency in his recent outings. In the Test series against Sri Lanka, he registered a half-century indicating his aggressive intent and ability to score quickly. he can dominate and intimidate the opposition bowlers making him a strong contender for as a captain or vice-captain of fantasy teams.

2. Wanindu Hasaranga

Why Will Wanindu Hasaranga Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?

Can Be A Match-Winner At Premadasa: Wanindu Hasaranga will be a key player on the spin-friendly surface of R. Premadasa Stadium, where spinners tend to dominate. His ability to extract sharp turn and deceive batters makes him a top wicket-taking option. With 20 wickets from 11 ODI matches at Premadasa, Hasaranga is a proven bowler and is well-equipped to rack up fantasy points in the match, making him a smart choice for the captain or vice-captain role.

Stellar Recent Form and All-Round Impact: Hasaranga has been in fine form with the ball, delivering match-winning spells consistently. His recent performances include figures of 3/10, 1/31, and 3/10, showcasing his wicket-taking ability. As an all-rounder, he also contributes with the bat, adding another layer of value for fantasy teams. Given his current form he is an ideal pick as a fantasy team captain or vice-captain.

1. Steve Smith

Why Will Steve Smith Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?

Recent Stellar Form: Steve Smith has been in outstanding form, delivering big scores across formats. His back-to-back centuries in the Test series against Sri Lanka (131 off 254 & 141 off 251) highlight his consistency. In the BBL, he showcased his white-ball prowess with a 121 off 64 and a 52 off 31, proving his ability to dominate in the shorter format as well. Hence, he can be explosive in the upcoming ODI as well.

Ability to Stay Long at the Crease: Smith’s ability to anchor the innings makes him a valuable fantasy pick. With an ODI career average of 43.55 and a strike rate of 87.19, he builds his innings steadily while accelerating when needed. His knack for converting starts into big scores ensures maximum fantasy points, making him a great captain or vice-captain choice.