Sri Lanka is gearing up for the World Test Championship following a successful ODI series against New Zealand. Currently ranked third, they aim to solidify their position with upcoming matches against South Africa. Coach Sanath Jayasuriya emphasizes a careful balance in player selection to ensure optimal performance, particularly for those transitioning from white-ball to red-ball formats. The first Test starts on November 27.
Sri Lanka’s cricket team is looking ahead to the World Test Championship as they prepare to face South Africa in a pivotal Test series. Following a 2-0 victory over New Zealand in the ODI series, Sri Lanka has built a commendable record at home, having recently triumphed against India, New Zealand, and the West Indies across different formats. Currently placed third in the ICC World Test Championship standings, Sri Lanka holds a promising chance to secure a spot in next year’s final at Lord’s, contingent on strong performances against South Africa abroad and Australia at home.
Several key red-ball players have already arrived in South Africa for this crucial series, while others, including Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Asitha Fernando, were retained for the limited-overs matches against New Zealand. These players were later rested for the final ODI as Sri Lanka had already clinched the series with their earlier victories. Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya acknowledged the challenge in balancing team selection to maintain the winning momentum while ensuring players are adequately rested prior to the significant red-ball matches ahead.
In discussing the importance of performance against New Zealand, Coach Jayasuriya emphasized, “We were discussing all these options, but we wanted to do well, even in Sri Lanka with the ODIs and T20s, because we can’t take things for granted even with this New Zealand team.”
He also elaborated on the decision to rest select players to allow them necessary recuperation before transitioning back to the red-ball format, highlighting the need for adaptability among players accustomed to white-ball cricket. Jayasuriya affirmed the preparations for Asitha Fernando, who has shown remarkable form, as he is expected to make a significant impact in South African conditions.
The first Test match against South Africa is scheduled to begin on November 27. Sri Lanka is aiming to build on their past successes in Tests against South Africa, hoping to achieve further accomplishments in this upcoming series, especially after a historic series win in 2019.
Sri Lanka’s cricket team has recently shown impressive form, especially in the ODI format, which sees them transitioning to the Test format with optimism. Their recent series win against New Zealand has bolstered the team’s confidence, and being ranked third in the ICC World Test Championship standings adds to the stakes as they prepare for the series against South Africa. This represents not only a competitive challenge but also an opportunity for Sri Lanka to potentially reach their first World Test Championship final.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka’s cricket team is poised for an important Test series against South Africa, with aspirations of advancing in the World Test Championship standings. By balancing player rotations and focusing on performance, Sri Lanka aims to leverage their recent successes and historical wins in South Africa to secure further achievements. The upcoming matches will test the team’s adaptability and resilience in challenging conditions.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
