Australia Vs Sri Lanka | |||
Venue :2nd One Day International, Sydney Cricket Ground |
The two teams face off in the second one day international on Friday 5th November. This series is important to both the sides in preparation for the World Cup and also significantly important for Australians to gain some momentum before Ashes. Sri Lanka would be confident after impressive start to this tour. Australia are a tough team to beat at home, but things can be different this time around.
Australia are welcoming the return of their key players Ricky Ponting, Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson. Ricky Ponting may have to face more criticism if he fails to deliver; there is no doubt that Ponting will be shaky before Friday's encounter.
Australia have drafted in the Tasmania spinner Xavier Doherty to accompany the struggling Nathan Hauritz and promising Steve Smith. Bran Haddin has made a reasonable return to international cricket. Michael Clarke has said that Aussies need to get their act together before Ashes, as time is slipping away. It is always hard to beat Australia in their own backyard and Sri Lanka would be wary of that. The match on 5th November can turn out to be a thrilling contest.
Australia have won two of their last completed 5 games.
Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakarra is confident that Sri Lanka would continue to perform and impress despite criticisms and involvement of political influence in their cricket. Their preparations for the World Cup in February are in full flow. Sri Lanka have had an impress run by winning Asia Cup and triangular series in Zimbabwe.
Sri Lanka have looked a compact team in the tour of Australia which is never easy. All rounder Angelo Matthews' return to international fold after injury can provide significant difference to the Sri Lankan team. Murlitharan has always been keen to impress in Australia and here is his chance.
SCG wicket may give inform Lasith Malinga some help, he can be devastating on his day. Sri Lanka are a side which is looking capable of winning against Australia, the game on Friday can further solidify their claim.
Sri Lanka have managed three victories out of their last five games.