Pakistan reserved their spot at the Premadasa Stadium for one of the semi-final after a smashing Super Eight victory over Australia at the same venue on Tuesday. Pakistan dominated this match by playing 18 overs by spinners.
Home side Sri Lanka have all the requisite personnel to employ similar spin tactics in this match, on a pitch likely to reward them. While Sri Lanka can choose between Ajantha and Jeevan Mendis, Akila Dananjaya, Rangana Herath – and opener Tillekeratne Dilshan as a part-time option. Pakistan are also even more blessed with possibilities.
Pakistan will hit the ground today to improve its record against the hosts, as the country won six out of nine Twenty20 matches against Sri Lanka that achieved victory in the remaining three.
Pakistan’s all-rounder Shoaib Malik is the most prominent batsman against the hosts with 122 runs; while, Umar Gul grabbed the maximum number of Islanders’ wickets.
In contrast, Kumar Sangakkara was the leading batsman who unnerved Pak bowlers with 171 runs. Fast bowler Lasith Malinga also put Pakistani batsmen on tenterhooks on several occasions.
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