West Indies Opt to Bat First in ODI Series Opener Against Sri Lanka
In the first of three ODIs at Pallekele, West Indies captain Shai Hope won the toss and elected to bat first against Sri Lanka. The decision came after Sri Lanka’s 2-1 victory in the T20I leg of the tour.
Hope expressed his team’s determination to put the T20 series disappointment behind them, while Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka also indicated his preference for batting first.
Sri Lanka’s team features three spinners in Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Dunith Wellalage, along with Asitha Fernando as the lone seamer. Janith Liyanage provides additional medium-pace options. Notably, star opener Pathum Nissanka is absent due to a quadricep injury, with Nishan Madushka making his ODI debut in his place.
West Indies have also opted for an additional spin option in leg-spinner Hayden Walsh, joining Gudakesh Motie and Roston Chase. Alick Athanaze offers another spin option, while Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, and Romario Shepherd provide seam bowling.
The Pallekele pitch has traditionally favored seam bowling, but its current dry condition with visible tracks suggests that spin will play a significant role. However, the slow turn expected may encourage batters to work the outfielders on the spacious ground.
Sri Lanka XI:
* Nishan Madushka
* Kusal Mendis (wk)
* Avishka Fernando
* Kamindu Mendis
* Charith Asalanka (capt)
* Sadeera Samarawickrama
* Janith Liyanage
* Wanindu Hasaranga
* Dunith Wellalage
* Jeffrey Vandersay
* Asitha Fernando
West Indies XI:
* Brandon King
* Alick Athanaze
* Shai Hope (capt, wk)
* Keacy Carty
* Sherfane Rutherford
* Roston Chase
* Romario Shepherd
* Hayden Walsh
* Gudakesh Motie
* Jayden Seales
* Alzarri Joseph
