SL vs AFG Match Prediction - Who will win today's 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan?

Sri Lanka and Afghanistan take on each other in a three-match ODI series that is scheduled to begin on Friday, June 2. The first ODI will be played at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium in Hambantota, Sri Lanka. Notably, all three matches will be played at the same venue.

The hosts would be coming into the game on the back of a 2-0 ODI series loss to New Zealand. On the other hand, the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghanistan has been in considerably good form as of late, and they would be expected to give the hosts a run for their money. 

SL vs AFG Match Details

Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 1st ODI Match, Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2023

Venue: Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, Sri Lanka

Date & Time: Friday, June 2, 10:00 AM IST

Broadcast & Live Streaming Details: Sony Sports Network, Sony liv app and website

Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium pitch report

The surface at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium in Sri Lanka is expected to provide an even contest with both the bat and the ball in the game. Electing to bowl first after winning the toss and attempting to chase the target down could prove to be a wise decision.

SL vs AFG Probable Playing XIs

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Chamika Karunaratne, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kasun Rajitha, Maheesh Theekshana 

Afghanistan (AFG):

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, , Mujib ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazal haq Farooqi, Abdul Rahman

SL vs AFG Probable Best Performers

Probable best batter

Pathum Nissanka

25-year-old Pathum Nissanka could be expected to play a big role in the first ODI. The batter has been in good form as of late, having scored 276 runs in his last eight matches. Maintaining an average of 39.42 runs, Nissanka could be an important player for Sri Lanka throughout the series. 

Probable best bowler

Fazalhaq Farooqi

Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi could be expected to make an impact with the ball in the ODI series. Having picked up 17 wickets in his last 10 matches, the 22-year-old could be an integral player for Afghanistan.

Today's Match Prediction: Sri Lanka to win the match

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.