Australia v Sri Lanka – Commonwealth Bank series (9th ODI) – Match Preview
The 9th match of the ongoing Commonwealth Bank series, between Australia and Sri Lanka, will have both sides, fresh from their victories against India at the Gabba, preparing to lock horns at the Bellerive Oval, Hobart, on February 24.
The Australian squad will be facing the challenge of adjusting to a few changes in the squad, most prominently the departure of Ricky Ponting, whereas the Lankan Lions, who have finally found their rhythm after a shaky start to the series, will be aiming
for another victory after their 51-run win against India on February 21. Michael Clarke’s side is at the top of the points table (14), with Sri Lanka at the second spot, 3 points behind Australia.
Lankan skipper, Mahela Jayawardene has acknowledged that his team’s main priority at the moment is consistency. With two losses at the beginning of the series, followed by two wins, the squad’s performances have been fluctuating, and another win will bring
them back on a steadier track.
For this reason, the visitors will be retaining the same line-up which enabled them to defeat India in the last match. The skipper, along with Tillakaratne Dilshan, will be opening the innings, and after their 95-run stand in the last match, will be eager
to give their team another solid start upfront.
Wicketkeeper Kumar Sangakkara will be looking to up his game after registering a disappointing 8 against India on Tuesday. The middle order looks solid, with Dinesh Chandimal, Lahiru Thirimanne (who remained the team’s top-scorer, with 62), and Angelo Mathews,
all of whom posted respectable totals on the board in the last game.
The bowling attack will need to be dominated by the pacers, as the pitch promises a good deal of bounce. Medium-fast bowler, Nuwan Kulasekara, who took 3 for 40 in the team’s last match, and Thisara Perera (4-37) are again expected to play a key role.
Meanwhile, the Australian team has been divided over the issue of Ponting’s dismissal, with some players terming it a necessary move, while others have expressed disappointment. It will be up to Clarke to unite his team, and channel their energies in the
right direction.
David Warner and Matthew Wade will be opening as usual, but the line-up also features the new addition of returning skipper Clarke, who will be filling Ponting’ss spot in the batting order. Peter Forrest has scored two half centuries in the three innings
he has played in the series so far, which augurs well for the upcoming match, while Michael and David Hussey are expected to be as consistent as ever.
Shane Watson’s comeback is uncertain for Hobart clash, but should he feature in the playing XI, Daniel Christian will be eliminated from the squad. Paceman Ryan Harris is also making a return, to join up with Ben Hilfenhaus in order to add an element of
speed to the Aussie bowling attack. The inclusion of Brett Lee (who is still recovering from a foot injury) also looks uncertain.
The surface at Hobart holds plenty of potential for pace and bounce, and is likely to offer generous opportunities to fast bowlers. The weather is expected to be sunny.
Australia playing XI (probable):
David Warner, Matthew Wade (wk), Michael Clarke (capt), Peter Forrest, Michael Hussey, David Hussey, Daniel Christian/Shane Watson, Ryan Harris, Clint McKay, Xavier Doherty, Ben Hilfenhaus
Sri Lanka playing XI (probable):
Mahela Jayawardene (capt), Tillakaratne Dilshan, Kumar Sangakkara (wk), Dinesh Chandimal, Lahiru Thirimanne, Angelo Mathews, Farveez Maharoof, Thisara Perera, Nuwan Kulasekara, Lasith Malinga, Rangana Herath