T20 World cup: The potential of the Sri Lankan Team

Beginning on October 16 are the qualifying matches for the T20 World Cup 2022. Namibia will play Sri Lanka in the opening qualifier. Australia and New Zealand will play in the opening match of the Super 12 round on October 22.

Australia and Sri Lanka also have an ongoing series, which displays the hard work put in by both squads to reach the level they currently are on. Both the teams have an eye on the upcoming world cup and are making the changes in playing 11 accordingly. The players, too, are trying their best to perform so that they are not left behind for the world cup. Both the teams have a lot of potential as the preparation is going on at full pace. So, let’s look at the same in detail below, along with the players who can be most important for their team’s success.

Sri Lanka’s Potential:

The country that once dominated the cricket world has not been in good condition for many years. However, now the situation has changed a lot. The Sri Lankan team can create waves at the event in Australia in 2022 after an excellent ICC T20 World Cup campaign in 2021 and a handful of players working in the IPL. Sri Lanka defeated Bangladesh and the West Indies in the UAE after negotiating early challengers in the First Round. They also challenged South Africa in a nail-biting final-over match in Sharjah.

The return of Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka means the team has the potential to upset more-fancied opposition in Australia. The team must be encouraged by several younger players who made an impact during last year’s world cup campaign.

Most impactful players of the squad:

Wanindu Hasaranga: Wanindu Hasaranga, the sensational spinner, didn’t leave a stone unturned, and also in the IPL, he turned the game in favor of Royal Challengers Bangalore many times. He was also one of the top contenders for a purple cap of IPL, which is a massive achievement as in the league, the best players from all around the world participate, and dominating them is a big deal.

Maheesh Theekshana: Maheesh Theekshana, the off-break bowler, is also a key player for Sri Lanka as the bowler has grabbed 16 wickets in 18 games with an economy of 6.44. The 21-year-old youngster was a part of IPL too. Like Wanindu Hasaranga, he was also very impactful for Chennai Super Kings as he took 12 wickets in 9 matches.