Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I, Pallekele: Preview, predictions, likely XIs

The series is already wrapped up. New Zealand have an unassailable 2-0 lead, after clinching an absolute thriller in Kandya, and the series now will be reduced to a matter of figuring out issues for the T20 Men’s World Cup 2020 in Australia.

Both teams are likely to ring in the changes, although it’s forced for both sides. Sri Lanka’s duo of Kusal Mendis and Shehan Jayasuriya were involved in a collision during the match – one running from mid-wicket, the other long-on after a Mitchell Santner hit – and Sri Lanka cricket confirmed both players had sustained injuries – Mendis on his right knee, Jayasuriya above his right knee.

However, they have opted not to name replacements, which means there will be some rejigging of the line-up, with Danushka Gunathilaka, the extra batsman in the squad, now sure to get a look in.

Similarly, New Zealand will be without Martin Guptill for the final T20I, after he strained his stomach muscle during the Kandy encounter. Tom Bruce, who scored a half-century to star in the chase, also picked up an injury during the innings, while Ross Taylor didn’t play the match all. With Lockie Ferguson ruled out for the whole tournament, New Zealand are stretched for resources, but there was good news, with Taylor recovering in time for the final match, along with Bruce.

Hamish Rutherford has also been called up as replacement for Guptill, and could be in line for an appearance.

Injuries apart, the match itself should be a cracker. The series as whole has been, with New Zealand winning the series with a four-wicket win in Kandya with just two balls remaining. Their middle order is very clearly their strength, and the Sri Lanka bowlers must find a way past the hulk of a man Colin de Grandhomme to ensure they are not whitewashed.

Head to head

The Pallekele encounter will be the 19^th T20I clash between New Zealand and Sri Lanka. The Black Caps have dominated this rivalry, restricting Sri Lanka to just six wins in 18 matches. New Zealand’s ten wins have come in a streak as well, with victories over Sri Lanka in their last five encounters.

Key players

Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka): The veteran wasn’t able to chip in with the wickets in Kandy. He sent down four overs for 39 runs in the second T20I, and the performance was below his best, when he would be economical, even if not taking wickets. Sri Lanka need him to lead the charge for a face-saving win.

Colin de Grandhomme (New Zealand): New Zealand’s bustling all-rounder has been excellent with the bat this series. He scored a crucial 28-ball 44 to power the chase in the first T20I, and then went better in Kandy with a 46-ball 59. Sri Lanka need to nip him out early to stand a chance in Pallekele.

Likely XIs

Sri Lanka: Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Perera (wk), Avishka Fernando, Niroshan Dickwella, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Isuru Udana, Akila Dananjaya, Kasun Rajitha, Lasith Malinga (c)

New Zealand: Colin Munro, Tim Seifert (wk), Ross Taylor, Colin de Grandhome, Tom Bruce, Scott Kuggelejin, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee (c), Seth Rance, Ish Sodhi

Prediction

New Zealand to close the tour with a series sweeping win.