Facing off in the pivotal clash on November 9th, New Zealand and Sri Lanka are set to battle it out in the World Cup 2023. With a semi-final berth hanging in the balance, this match holds significant implications for both teams.
Match Overview: Today’s fixture holds the key to determining the fourth team in the semi-finals. A convincing win for the Kiwi team could almost guarantee their spot in the semi-finals, while a narrow margin of victory or defeat might dash their hopes. New Zealand enters the field with a clear mission – to secure a resounding victory over Sri Lanka.
Importance for Sri Lanka: Although Sri Lanka is out of the semi-final contention, the match carries weight for their future in the Champions Trophy 2025. Currently sitting at ninth position with 2 wins in 8 matches, Sri Lanka must secure a win to stay in the top-8 and avoid losing their Champions Trophy ticket.
Playing Elevens: New Zealand might see the return of fast bowler Loki Ferguson and the presence of Kyle Jamieson. Despite Kane Williamson’s recent injury, the team management aims to have him on the field for this crucial match. Conversely, the Sri Lankan lineup is likely to remain unchanged.
Probable Playing-11s: New Zealand: Devon Conway Rachin Ravindra Kane Williamson (captain) Daryl Mitchell Tom Latham (wicketkeeper) Glenn Phillips Mark Chapman Mitchell Santner Ish Sodhi/Kyle Jamieson Trent Boult Tim Southee/Lockie Ferguson Sri Lanka: Pathum Nisanka Kusal Perera Kusal Mendis (captain) Sadeera Samarawickrama Charith Aslanka Angelo Mathews Dhananjay De Silva Mahesh Teekshna Kasun Rajitha Dushmantha Chamira Dilshan Madushanka
