(Cricket news) – After a  long hiatus, Zimbabwe will be playing against Sri Lanka in a three match ODI series. Sri Lanka is back in action after a month, all the three matches will be held in Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Zimbabwe is heading with a handful of experienced batters who can overthrow the young hosts but in the bowling unit the team in red falls behind. The pitch is bowler friendly but can throw in surprises.

Craig Ervine, the captain of the Zimbabwe team is set to play his 100th match in the 50 over format. Ervine was the second highest run scorer in the series against Ireland with two half centuries in three matches, the team will be needing the captain to take the lead again as they will be up against a tougher bowling attack. Sean Williams, the most senior side on the player is also expected to guide the team with the bat and ball. Sean is 5 runs away from becoming the 7th player from his side to score more than 4000 runs in ODI’s.

Among the bowlers for the team in red, Blessing Muzarabani will be leading the bowling attack alongside another pacer Richard Ngarava. Even though both don't have much experience they can be a cause of concern with their pace and are backed up by experienced team mates. Tendai Chatara, one of the fastest bowlers in the team is 4 wickets away from being the 6th bowler to take 100 wickets in the format.

Sri Lanka team is also building up their pace numbers with the entry of three uncapped players in the squad. Nuwan Pradeep and Dushmantha Chameera will be the forefront of speedsters in the team and have the advantage of playing at home. Spinner Praveen Jayawickrama had a splendid debut in Tests for the team last year and now he will need to strike in this format as he has played 5 ODI so far.

The hosts have batters who can bring a few twists and turns in the plot. Charith Asalanka is having a good run since making his debut last year with three half centuries in 8 matches, the left hander can set the tone in the first few overs for the team. Dinesh Chandimal is also a handy top order batter who has had 5 years of experience playing at this level and can form a steady partnership with Kusal Mendis. The first one day is scheduled to start tomorrow as the players complete their pandemic protocols.

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