AUS vs SL: 5 players to watch out for in T20I series
Australia are set to host Sri Lanka in a five-match T20I series, starting on February 11 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Considering the recent performances of both sides, the Aussies are undoubtedly the favourites and are expected to clinch the series without much hassle. Hence, the Sri Lankan team needs to put up a special show to upset the Aussies in their own backyard.
Meanwhile, both sides haven’t played any T20I matches since the T20 World Cup last year. The tournament saw Aussies clinching the elusive title. On the other hand, Sri Lanka won two of their five matches in the Super 12 stage and couldn’t make to the knock-outs. A T20 World Cup is slated to take place later this year as well and Australia will host the event. Hence, Sri Lanka would view this series as an ideal preparation chance.
Meanwhile, let’s look at five players to watch out for in the series:
- David Warner
One of the most destructive openers going around, David Warner is nothing short of a nightmare for bowlers in this format of the game. The southpaw can attack bowlers from the outset and his knack of playing big knocks makes him even more effective. Not to forget, Warner was named the Player of the tournament in last year’s T20 World Cup.
2. Wanindu Hasaranga
The new poster boy of Sri Lankan cricket, Wanindu Hasaranga has been on a roll in the last couple of years. The leg-spinner is a genuine wicket-taker in the middle overs and his ability to contain run makes him a captain’s delight. It must be noted that Hasaranga is also a handy batter lower down the order.
3. Josh Hazlewood
The likes of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc aren’t likely to feature in all matches as they were recently involved in Australia’s 4-0 Ashes triumph. Hazlewood got ruled out after the first game and would be fresh for this series. Ranked sixth in the T20I bowling rankings, the right-arm pacer has been doing well in the format lately and Sri Lankan batters must beware of him.
4. Charith Asalanka
Not even a year old in international cricket, Charith Asalanka has become a vital cog of the Sri Lankan team. The southpaw scores valuable runs in the middle overs and that too at a quick pace. He did well in the last year’s T20 World Cup well. Hence, the visitors would be counting on him.
5. Glenn Maxwell
Glenn Maxwell is one of the most sought-after players going around in T20 cricket. The dasher can literally take the game away from the opposition and his handy off-spins make him a complete package. The 33-year-old was phenomenal in the recently-concluded Big Bash League and Sri Lanka will not want Maxwell to continue his stellar run.
