Sri Lanka vs Pakistan
Sri Lanka won the toss and decided to bat against Pakistan. This pitch is batting friendly. High scores are likely if the Sri Lankan batsmen can bat responsibly. However, Sri Lanka stumbled at the beginning of the innings. They lost the wicket of Kusal Perera for just 5 runs in the second over.
In today's match, I consider Pakistan team as favorite. However, the performance of their players is very erratic. They also lost against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup match. Still, I think Pakistan will play responsibly in today's match. Also since the pitch is batting friendly. So Pakistan's batsmen may also be able to play well. The average score of the first innings at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium is 291 runs. But I don't think Sri Lanka will be able to give a target like 290
Sri Lanka lost the wicket of Kusal Perera very quickly. Still the team was playing brilliantly due to the responsible batting of Nissanka and Mendis. But they just lost the wicket of Mathum Nissanka. After collecting 51 runs in 61 balls, he returned to dressing room.
The team has collected 112 runs in 18 overs. Sri Lanka's run rate is very good. The team has the potential to score 300 runs if the players stay at the crease. If Sri Lanka can provide 300+ target then they have chances to win. Because in the second innings, it is much more difficult to win by batting at the target of 300+ runs on this pitch.
I am very disappointed with Pakistan's fielding today. The team is fielding very badly. And this is why Sri Lankan batsmen are getting more confident to play big shots.