WI vs SL: 3rd ODI, Match Prediction- Who will win today’s match?

Despite putting a better batting display than the first ODI, Sri Lanka failed to avoid a loss in the second match against West Indies on Friday (12th March 2021). Half-centuries from Danushka Gunathilaka and Dinesh Chandimal guided them to a competitive score of 274, although, in response, Shai Hope and Evin Lewis killed the chase through their record 192-run opening stand.

While the scoreboard does not suggest the nervy moments and jitters that Sri Lanka were able to create after picking three quick wickets in the middle-overs, West Indies was saved by Nicholas Pooran’s late charge, which ensured that Evin Lewis’ spectacular 103 did not go in vain.

Having pouched the series already, West Indies would aim at registering a whitewash, whereas Sri Lanka, who are yet to open their account in the ICC ODI Super League points table, would want to do so through a victory in the final rubber. Further, the two sides will move to the longest format after the conclusion of the 50-overs series. A victory before appearing for a new challenge will not be a bad idea for Sri Lanka.

Pitch and conditions

On both occasions thus far, the track at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium has been fair towards both bowlers and batsmen. Having offered trustworthy bounce and a fair bit for the batsmen, expect another similar track for the final encounter. That both the encounters have witnessed the chasers emerging on the correct side of the result, there might be an inclination towards chasing.

Playing combinations for WI vs SL

West Indies

Predicted XI: Evin Lewis, Shai Hope (WK), Darren Bravo, Nicholas Pooran, Jason Mohammed, Kieron Pollard (C), Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers/Fabian Allen, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein/Kevin Sinclair, Alzarri Joseph

Sri Lanka

Predicted XI: Danushka Gunathilaka, Dimuth Karunaratne (C), Pathum Nissanka, Dinesh Chandimal (WK), Ashen Bandara, Oshada Fernando, Thisara Perera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Lakshan Sandakan, Nuwan Pradeep

Probable Top Performers for WI vs SL

Evin Lewis – West Indies

While Shai Hope has been on song, Evin Lewis has managed to impress with a different, calmer, and more mature approach by playing as per the situation instead of playing by instincts. His unrushed approach alongside a free-flowing Hope during two consecutive century opening stands has not only made him look an improved batsman but has also inevitably ensured that his team has been in the driver’s seat.

Danushka Gunathilaka – Sri Lanka

Around the wobbly batting forms of his teammates, Danushka Gunathilaka has stitched two spectacular performances, establishing himself as Sri Lanka’s most effective batsmen in the current series. After a calculated 61-ball 55 in the first ODI, he missed out on a well-deserving century only by four runs, as he perished for a run-a-ball 96 in the second.

WI vs SL Broadcast Details

Match Timings – 07:00 PM IST

Live Streaming – Fancode

The prediction is for West Indies 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.