![Charith Asalanka can be a strong fantasy captain for upcoming 2nd ODI against Australia [Source: @OfficialSLC/X/com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1739435774369_Asalanka.jpg?type=mq)
Charith Asalanka can be a strong fantasy captain for upcoming 2nd ODI against Australia [Source: @OfficialSLC/X/com]
Sri Lanka will face Australia in the second ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. After their victory in the opening match, the Sri Lankan team will be eager to take on the Aussies once again. The match is set to begin on February 14, with live coverage available from 10 AM IST.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka will aim to build on their impressive performance in the first ODI as they prepare for the second match against Australia. Captain Charith Asalanka, who played a pivotal role with a match-winning century, will once again be essential in anchoring the team's batting.
The spin pair of Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage, who shared six wickets in the opening encounter, will be critical on the sluggish Colombo surface. Asitha Fernando’s pace and aggression with the new ball further strengthen Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. With Wanindu Hasaranga contributing both with the bat and ball, the hosts will look to capitalize on their momentum and aim for another victory to extend their series lead.
Australia
Australia will be looking to recover in the second ODI following a disappointing collapse in the series opener. Captain Steve Smith, who was dismissed cheaply in the first match, will be keen to lead by example and contribute with a solid innings. Alex Carey, who was the top scorer with 41 runs in the previous game, will play a vital role in stabilizing the middle order once again.
All-rounder Sean Abbott, who showed grit with both bat and ball, will be crucial in Australia’s fightback. The pace attack, featuring Abbott, Nathan Ellis, and Spencer Johnson, made early inroads but will need better support from the spinners. With Marnus Labuschagne expected to anchor the innings, Australia will aim to level the series with a much-improved batting performance.
R Premadasa Stadium - Pitch Report for 2nd ODI
The R. Premadasa Stadium is renowned for its spin-friendly conditions, with the pitch offering sharp turns and unpredictable bounce as the game progresses. Early in the innings, batsmen can manage the surface with its consistent bounce and minimal cracks. However, as the match continues, the pitch begins to wear, leading to visible cracks and erratic bounce, which makes scoring more difficult.
These conditions favour spinners, who can exploit the grip and turn in the later stages of the game. With the previous match being a low-scoring affair and teams batting first having a better chance of victory, the toss will be a significant factor, with both captains likely to choose to bat first.
Top 3 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices for SL vs AUS
3. Sean Abbott
Why Will Sean Abbott Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Partnership Breaker: Sean Abbott is renowned as a wicket-taking bowler for Australia, making him an impactful choice for fantasy teams. His ability to break crucial partnerships and put early pressure on opposition batters has repeatedly turned games. He has taken 32 wickets in his 27 ODI outings and can bring in value with the ball making him a key asset on the Premadasa pitch for Australia.
Stellar Recent Form: In terms of recent form, Abbott has consistently delivered strong performances across formats. His figures, such as a 3-61 in the ODI against Sri Lanka and standout BBL efforts with figures like 4-43 and 3-29, demonstrate his knack for picking up wickets economically and with searing pace. This blend of proven ability and current form makes him an excellent candidate for captain or vice-captain roles in fantasy cricket.
2. Maheesh Theekshana
Why Will Maheesh Theekshana Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Ravishing Recent Form: Maheesh Theekshana's recent form makes him a strong contender for the captain or vice-captain role in fantasy teams. His performances in recent matches, including a brilliant 4-40 against Australia in an ODI and consistent efforts in the Lanka Premier League (LPL), where he has regularly taken wickets while maintaining economy rates, showcase his current match-winning potential.
Consistent Bowler: Theekshana's consistent performances over time further solidify his fantasy value. With 76 wickets in 51 ODIs at an impressive average of 25.37, along with a career-best of 4/25, he has established himself as a reliable wicket-taker. His ability to deliver with the ball, coupled with his economical approach and wicket-taking capabilities, make him a great choice for leadership roles in fantasy teams.
1. Charith Asalanka
Why Will Charith Asalankah Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
All-Rounder Skills: Charith Asalanka’s all-round abilities make him a valuable pick for the captain or vice-captain role in fantasy teams. A reliable middle-order batter and a handy off-spin bowler, Asalanka contributes in multiple ways. His ability to build innings under pressure, accelerate when needed, and chip in with crucial overs makes him an asset in limited-overs cricket.
Key Player On Premadasa: Asalanka's success at the Premadasa pitch and recent form further enhance his fantasy value. With 1,044 runs at an average of 43.50 at the venue, including three centuries and four fifties, Asalanka thrives in these conditions. His recent 127-run knock against Australia highlights his match-winning ability. His familiarity with the conditions and consistent run-scoring ability will, therefore, make him an ideal fantasy captain for fantasy teams.
 "Soumyajit Dutta")
