Sri Lanka vs West Indies | Cricket Match Prediction | 3rd ODI | Oct 26 – Will SL whitewash WI?

SL vs WI Match Analysis

On October 26, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. BDT, Sri Lanka and the West Indies will play the third ODI of a three-match ODI series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. 

Sri Lanka secured the series with an emphatic win in the second ODI, leaving the West Indies disheartened. With momentum firmly on their side, Sri Lanka aims to overpower the West Indies once more in this inconsequential final match to complete a clean sweep.

The West Indies understand what it takes to push for a win, but their inexperienced squad struggles to adjust to the conditions and handle spin with greater assurance. With the series already decided, they may switch up the lineup, introduce fresh young talent, and provide these players an opportunity to represent their country.

SL vs WI Team Preview & Squads

Sri Lanka 

Sri Lanka has been sharp in its performance throughout the first two ODIs, now marking 3 wins in its last 5 home series. They’ll look to go for the kill and aim for a clean sweep.

Charith Asalanka has led SL impressively, scoring fifties in both games and standing out as the hosts’ key batsman in this match. He’s been well-supported by Janith Liyanage and Sadeera Samarawickrama.

The opening pair, Nishan Madushka and Avishka Fernando, has also performed solidly. Madushka, in particular, has been impressive, especially since this is his debut ODI series. However, SL’s main strength lies in its bowling unit, especially the spinners.

Wanindu Hasaranga has taken 6 wickets across the two games, with solid backing from Maheesh Theekshana. Asitha Fernando, who claimed 3 wickets in the previous game, will head the pace attack.

Sri Lanka Squads

Sri Lanka Squads

Dilshan Madushanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Mendis, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Asitha Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Mohamed Shiraz, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, and Wanindu Hasaranga.

West Indies

West Indies, despite fielding a strong lineup on paper, continue to struggle in the ODI format, having now lost 3 of their last 4 bilateral series.

Alick Athanaze and Brandon King must perform better at the top of the order for WI, as their poor form has had a ripple effect on the middle order, making it difficult for them to recover. Likewise, players like Shai Hope and Keacy Carty have been unable to turn their promising starts into substantial scores.

Sherfane Rutherford has been the standout for the WI, scoring half-centuries in both matches. He’s had valuable support from Gudakesh Motie, who delivered an all-round performance, although it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

Motie also shares the top Wicket-Taker spot for the team alongside Alzarri Joseph. Unfortunately, Jayden Seales and Hayden Walsh remain wicketless in the series. 

West Indies Squads

West Indies Squads

Alzarri Joseph, Keacy Carty, Romario Shepherd, Jewel Andrew, Roston Chase, Hayden Walsh, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Matthew Forde, Shamar Joseph, Shai Hope, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Alick Athanaze, and Evin Lewis.

Sri Lanka vs West Indies outfield report

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Most typically, the team that wins the toss will choose to bowl first.

The sky will continue to be cloudy, and rain may cause delays.

Many batsmen from the West Indies discovered the other day that it was difficult to score runs on the used surface. Conditions will mostly remain unchanged, although a fresh wicket is required for the last match.

Sri Lanka vs West Indies Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

West Indies won two and Sri Lanka won three in their last five face-offs.

Sri Lanka vs West Indies Prediction

Cricket analysts predict Sri Lanka has a 74% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.