India secured commanding victories against Nepal and Pakistan before facing two closely contested matches on their journey to the 2023 Asia Cup final. Similar to Sri Lanka, who also reached the final, this tournament has been overshadowed by the looming World Cup. While Sunday's match won't be a mere practice game, its significance is unlikely to endure.
While there are more pressing concerns for both teams, neither should be disheartened. India's optimal lineup, Sri Lanka's ideal pace bowlers, and opening pair knowledge all come into play. With Axar Patel and Maheesh Theekshana sidelined due to injuries, the finalists can now explore robust alternatives.
In the recent Asian championship, amidst nail-biting contests, we found answers to important questions. Is ODI batting depth overrated? Must bowling quality be sacrificed for better batsmen at Nos. 8 and 9?
While Dunith Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana played their part for Sri Lanka, it was India's Axar Patel who shone the brightest. His 36-ball 26 against Sri Lanka and 34-ball 42 in a challenging run-chase against Bangladesh were standout performances. Despite his underwhelming bowling returns, Axar made significant contributions to the team's cause.
Dunith Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana played their part for Sri Lanka, but the standout performer was India's Axar Patel. Despite Axar's absence in the Asia Cup final, India's experimentation continues. Washington Sundar joins as a replacement, supported by Hardik Pandya's pace. Can India risk three spinners to bolster their lower order?
Team News
Sri Lanka:
Maheesh Theekshana's hamstring injury rules him out of the final, and 27-year-old offspinner Sahan Arachchige takes his place. However, Sri Lanka still faces questions about their top pacers and optimal opening partnership.
Probable XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis(w), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka(c), Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madhushan/Dushan Hemantha, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana
India:
Axar Patel's injury against Bangladesh forces him out of the final, with Washington Sundar stepping in as his potential replacement in the XI.
Probable XI:
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar/Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj
