The third and final ODI of New Zealand's tour of Sri Lanka is scheduled to commence today (19th) at 2:30 PM at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Notably, this match will also mark the final international match to be held in Sri Lanka this year. Despite Sri Lanka already securing the series victory with a 2-0 lead, today's match holds significance as a win could elevate Sri Lanka to fifth place in the ICC ODI rankings.
Sri Lanka Cricket has decided to release four key players from the ODI squad to provide them rest ahead of the upcoming Test series against South Africa. The players being rested are opener Pathum Nissanka, middle-order batters Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis, and lead pacer Asitha Fernando. Replacing them in the squad are Nuwanidu Fernando, Lahiru Udara, and Eshan Malinga.
Although there is some risk of weather interruptions during today's match, forecasts suggest it is unlikely to result in the match being abandoned. However, reduced overs and conditions favorable for bowling may come into play, making it likely that the team winning the toss will prefer to bowl first.
With the absence of the four regular players, there is a strong possibility of Nuwanidu Fernando, Kusal Perera, and Nishan Madushka being included in the playing XI. Accordingly, Avishka Fernando and Nishan Madushka are expected to open the batting, with Kusal Perera taking the No. 3 spot. Nuwanidu Fernando is likely to occupy the No. 4 batting position, while Dilshan Madushanka is expected to step in as the lead pacer.
The probable Sri Lankan playing XI for today's match:
- **Nishan Madushka**
- **Avishka Fernando**
- **Kusal Perera**
- **Nuwanidu Fernando**
- **Charith Asalanka**
- **Sadeera Samarawickrama**
- **Janith Liyanage**
- **Dunith Wellalage**
- **Maheesh Theekshana**
- **Dilshan Madushanka**
- **Jeffrey Vandersay**