India vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I, find out the key matchups

India last lost a bilateral T20I series at home in 2019, when Australia defeated them 2-0. They have been unbeaten in 11 series since then. However, this could alter on Saturday. After pushing India close in the first T20I, Sri Lanka defeated them by 16 runs in the second to tie the series at one. Sri Lanka’s victory in Rajkot will not only end India’s streak but will also be the visitors’ first T20I series triumph in India in six attempts. Lets us find out the key matchups before the game.

The surface at Rajkot is batting heaven, with batters salivating at the prospect of playing on a flat wicket. The bowlers will not have much to work with on Rajkot’s pitch. In order to get some wickets, they would try to fool the hitters with their line and length. The dimensions of the field are not as large, but the hitters will make the most of it. We’re expecting a full game with no chance of rain. Last year, the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot held a T20I match between India and South Africa. India won that game by 82 runs after scoring 169 runs in total.

Hardik Pandya vs Chamika Karunaratne

Pandya hit a massive six when Karunaratne came to bowl in the last game but by the end of the over, Pandya was dismissed. This battle would once again be intriguing.

Axar Patel vs Wanindu Hasaranga

Patel changed the game on its head when he came out to bat in the last game and he attacked Hasaranga the most, India may promote Axar in the 3rd game to once again target the Sri Lankan leggie.

Kusal Mendis vs Shivam Mavi

Mendis went after Mavi in the 2nd game, he would be expected to give Sri Lanka a strong start again. Mavi on the other hand would look to give India early breakthroughs.