India and Sri Lanka Cricket Teams are set to kick-start the calendar year with thrills, engaging in an exciting three-match T20I series as the men in blue welcome the Island nation’s players at their home. The Ind vs SL 1st T20I is set to take place at Wankhede Stadium on January 3rd, whereas the rest of the two will be played 5th and 7th of the month.
The mentioned stadium is known as the batting paradise due to its even pace and bounce. On the other hand, the bowlers tend to struggle due to its support for the flow of runs. However, we will be able to determine the top run-scorers and leading wicket-takers of the day when the first T20 is played. Let’s glance at them.
Sanju Samson:
Sanju Samson has the opportunity to establish himself as a top-order batsman for India in this series, with key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul not in the squad. The Wankhede Stadium is also a particularly favourable venue for Samson, as he has excelled in T20 matches there, scoring 712 runs in 24 games at a high strike rate of 143.83, including four half-centuries and a century. There has been criticism of India’s top order being too conservative in T20Is, and Samson could bring a more aggressive approach if given a consistent opportunity.
Pathum Nisanka:
Pathum Nissanka has been a reliable performer for Sri Lanka at the top of the order in recent months. While he may not have an exceptionally high strike rate, he has consistently provided his team with a solid start. He has also succeeded against India, scoring 128 runs in four innings against them, including two half-centuries. Nissanka will likely relish the pace and bounce of the Wankhede Stadium pitch and will be eager to help his team get off to a strong start.
Arshdeep Singh:
Arshdeep Singh is a strong contender to be the top wicket-taker in the first T20I due to his success in international cricket in 2022. In 21 matches, he took 33 wickets, demonstrating his ability to fill the role of Jasprit Bumrah. The conditions at the Wankhede Stadium, including the swing of the new ball under lights, may favour Arshdeep’s style of play. His proficiency in delivering yorkers could also make him a threat during the latter stages of the innings.
Wanindu Hasaranga:
Wanindu Hasaranga is highly regarded as one of the best T20 bowlers in the world, as evidenced by his impressive 31 wickets in two T20 World Cups. He has also had success at the Wankhede Stadium, with eight wickets in 4 games and his best figures being 5/18. In addition, Hasaranga has taken ten wickets in 7 matches against India in T20s and has a relatively low economy rate of 6.79. Given these statistics and the shorter boundaries at Wankhede, the Indian batters should be cautious and not underestimate Hasaranga’s abilities.
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