The first T20I between India and Sri Lanka was called off due to wet pitch conditions which was quite strange to believe. Now the focus shifts to 2nd T20I in Indore where both the teams will be raring to go as a victory there would make sure that they cannot lose the series.
Here we look at the 5 potential threats that India needs to vary of in the 2ndT20I.
Lasith Malinga
When a team plays against an opposition that has Malinga in its bowling ranks, it’s hard to get into the game without having a plan to tackle it. Lasith Malinga may not be the same he used to be several years ago but he still is a threat to any batsmen in the world.His cricketing brain has grown, if anything, and he’s become more canny than ever. He has the ability to close the game with the new ball and make the opposition 2 or 3 down for nothing with his swinging yorkers.
Kusal Perera
The dynamic south-paw can punish the opposition if the bowlers miss the margin even by a bit. He is a fearless cricketer that Sri Lanka has produced in the recent times. He is a match winner and on his day can destroy the opposition attacks and make them look silly. His 37 ball 77 against India which comprised of Bumrah, Kuldeep, Chahal and Pandya in their bowling attack in the 2nd T20I which included 7 sixes and 4 fours in the year 2017 is surely one knock which a hardcore cricket fan will never forget.
Isuru Udana
Isuru Udana who recently got his maiden IPL contract has become a hot prospect in T20s around the world. His calm and composed mindset while bowling death overs makes him even more special. He has developed himself into a reliable bowling all rounder off late. His recent batting exploits have brought him to everyone’s attention. He certainly cannot be discounted with both the bat and the ball.
Avishka Fernando
The young and fearless opening batsman has impressed everyone with his stroke play. He is aggressive and his style of play suits T20 format more than any other. He will punish anything that is short and just loves to play when there is true bounce on the surface. His brilliant century against West Indies in the world cup stands as an example for his talent and skill. He is a player who will take full advantage of field restrictions and if not removed early he will make the opposition suffer big time.
Dasun Shanaka
The 28 year old all-rounder has showed lots of promise when he made his debut in 2015 but never couldn’t do justice to his talent. He has developed a lot since then and has a more matured head on his shoulders. He lead Sri Lanka to a 3-0 victory over the #1 T20I side Pakistan in Pakistan under most difficult circumstances when their A grade players refused to tour to Pakistan. He is a powerful hitter down the order and can change the game on his head in no time to go with his more than useful fast-medium bowling. He will be one player Sri Lanka will bank on to give India a real run for their money.