Sri Lanka v Zimbabwe, 2nd ODI, Tri-series - Result Predictions

After suffering a painful defeat in the 1st ODI, Zimbabwe now has a huge task ahead as they prepare to lock horns with Sri Lanka. Bangladesh outplayed them across all departments to clinch a big win and boost their run rate. This game can be called “The Battle of Strugglers” as both teams are aiming to leave behind the memories of their horrendous 2017 campaign.

Sri Lanka definitely enter as one of the favorites to win this tournament. With due respect to Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, they still have a much better stature. Even though it might not be surprising to see Zimbabwe pulling off something spectacular, the Islanders do have the edge. The experience of Upul Tharanga, Thisara Perera, and Suranga Lakmal will be pivotal for their success.

Here’s what we, at CricTracker predict will be the final result-

Scenario 1: Sri Lanka win the toss

Toss Prediction: Sri Lanka decide to bat first

First Innings Prediction: 260-275

Result Prediction: Sri Lanka win by 30-40 runs

Scenario 2: Zimbabwe win the toss

Toss Prediction: Zimbabwe decide to bat first

First Innings Prediction: 215 – 230

Result Prediction: Sri Lanka win by 4 wickets.

Head to Head

Total Matches Played – 55, Sri Lanka won – 43, Zimbabwe won – 10, Tied/No Result – 2

Playing Combinations

Sri Lanka

With Danushka Gunathilaka and Upul Tharanga opening the innings they have Kusal Mendis coming in at number three. Skipper Angelo Mathews will follow next and the other big names in the middle order include Dinesh Chandimal, Niroshan Dickwella, Asela Gunaratne and Thisara Perera.

The fast bowling department will be headed by Suranga Lakmal, who was a little off beat in 2017. Thisara Perera and Mathews will accompany in the seam department. With some excellent spinners like Akila Dananjaya and Lakshan Sandakan, they look well poised for a great start to the new year.

Probable XI: Danushka Gunathilaka, Upul Tharanga, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews(c), Dinesh Chandimal, Niroshan Dickwella(w), Asela Gunaratne, Thisara Perera, Suranga Lakmal, Akila Dananjaya, Lakshan Sandakan

Zimbabwe

Their opening combination hasn’t changed for a long time now and once again, it’ll be Masakadza and Mire doing the honors. With Craig Ervine coming in at number, they have the experienced pack of Brendan Taylor, Sikandar Raza, Malcolm Waller, and Peter Moor in the middle order.

Tendai Chatara and Kyle Jarvis are the senior most members in the side when it comes to fast bowling. They will be accompanied by Blessing Muzarabani. Skipper Cremer will take care of the spin department alongisde Sikandar Raza and Craig Ervine.

Probable XI: Hamilton Masakadza, Solomon Mire, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor(w), Sikandar Raza, Malcolm Waller, Peter Moor, Graeme Cremer(c), Kyle Jarvis, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani

We believe Zimbabwe will push hard, but eventually, Sri Lanka will emerge victorious.

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