Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2nd ODI Match Prediction – Who will win today's match?

Sri Lanka came out top in the first ODI against Zimbabwe having chased down the score of 297 comfortably and have gone 1-0 up in the three-match ODI series. Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, and Dinesh Chandimal all contributed with a half century and took the side home while Sean William’s century earlier on the day went in vain. Chamilka Karunatne was the star of the bowling attack for the Sri Lankan side as he picked up three wickets and bowled well in the death overs.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe did not have much in their favor and they will be a little happier with their batting effort rather than the bowling which did not click. Two changes are expected in all for the second ODI with the speedster Dushmantha Chameera coming in for Chamika Gunasekara who bowled just the one over in the first ODI. The other change will be for the Zimbabwe side who are likely to bring in Luke Jongwe in place of Ryan Burl.

Match Details:

Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2nd ODI

Venue: Pallekele Stadium

Date & Time: January 18th at 2:30 PM (IST and Local Time)

Where to Watch:  Sony Sports network

Pitch Report:

Sri Lanka chased down a score of 297 on the same pitch in the first ODI and hence, the team winning the toss will be tempted to bowl first considering the due factor. The team that bats first will need to post a big total on the board if they have to stand a chance.

Average score: 250 (26 ODIs at Pallekele)

Record of chasing teams: Won-16, Lost -10

Probable Playing XIs for SL vs ZIM:

Sri Lanka

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(wk), Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Pradeep

Zimbabwe

Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Regis Chakabva(wk), Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Luke Jongwe Wellington Masakadza, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Head-to-Head

Matches– 58, Sri Lanka – 45, Zimbabwe – 11, N/R- 2

Probable top performers

Pathum Nissanka – Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan opener looked in great touch in the first ODI against Zimbabwe and it was unfortunate that he could not carry the innings to a well-deserved century. He has looked very certain on the crease with very few doubts and hit 10 fours in his knock of 75 off just 71 deliveries. He will be looking to make it count in the second ODI with another excellent performance.

Craig Ervine – Zimbabwe

The skipper Craig Ervine missed out on the opportunity in the first ODI and was dismissed for just 9. He is an experienced campaigner and the 36-year-old will know that he needs to step up for the side from the front. The left-hander will be keen to make a big contribution in the second ODI.

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.