SL vs BAN 1st T20I Forecast – Predicted Playing XI, Injuries & Key Matchups

The first T20I between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is just days away on 10 July 2025, set at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. With the series opener looming, here’s a comprehensive preview—covering likely squads, fitness updates, and the major in-game battles to watch out for.

Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka

Skipper Wanindu Hasaranga leads what appears to be a balanced side aiming to blend youth with experience:

• Haloed openers: Pathum Nissanka continues as the go-to aggressor at the top—despite a hamstring niggle recently—while Avishka Fernando complements him with flow and power.
   
• Middle order resilience: Kusal Mendis will keep, supported by the adaptable Charith Asalanka.
   
• All-round depth: Dhananjaya de Silva, an occasional spinner, adds flexibility.
   
• Spin duo: In-form Hasaranga (leg spin) and Maheesh Theekshana (off-spin) anchor the spin threat.
   
• Pace attack: Asitha Fernando returns after a Test stint, supported by Matheesha Pathirana and Milan Rathnayake .
   

Bangladesh

Bangladesh are expected to field a refreshed unit under captain Litton Das:

• New opening pair: Mohammad Naim earned his spot after impressive BPL form; he’ll partner Tanzid Hasan at the top.
   
• Quality middle order: Litton Das (c/wk) anchors, joined by Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Shamim Hossain.
   
• Spin power: Rishad Hossain returns as the strike spinner after a successful World Cup; backed by Mahedi Hasan.
   
• Pace reinforcements: Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed are fit and bowling revival tours after recent injuries; Mohammad Saifuddin also returns.
   

Injury & Availability Status

• Sri Lanka: Key players—Nissanka and Asitha Fernando—return from minor issues. There are no major injuries reported, and the squad looks fitness-ready .
   
• Bangladesh: Several senior players were left out, including Najmul Hossain Shanto. However, all frontline pacers—Taskin, Mustafizur, Saifuddin—are fit to play. No current injury concerns noted.
   

Key Matchups to Monitor

1. Powerplay Pace Duel

Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando will face Mustafizur and Taskin in the first six overs. Whether Mustafizur can reverse-swing against aggressive hitting could define the early trajectory.

2. Spin Showdown

Hasaranga vs Mehidy/Hossain—an intriguing matchup. Hasaranga offers leg-spin aggression, while Bangladesh’s pair deliver tight lines. This contest may determine the middle-overs dominance.

3. Middle-Order Stability

Das, Asalanka, and de Silva face Bangladesh’s Miraz—a battle of stability vs control. Miraz’s all-round abilities might stifle Sri Lanka’s batting depth.

4. Death Over Specialists

Pathirana’s speed bowling against Bangladesh’s finishers could swing the final overs. His pace combined with Mustafizur’s yorkers may seal the match.

Tactical Considerations

• Sri Lanka: Likely to chase, relying on spinners during death overs. Bowlers could leverage bounce at Pallekele.
   
• Bangladesh: Opting to bat first may avoid dew and add pressure; Miraz and Shoriful offer contrasting bowling options.
   

Final Word

This opening T20I promises strategic intensity. Expect a strong interplay between powerplay bowling, spin control in middle overs, and tense finishing spells. Squad strength and minimal injury concerns suggest both teams are prepared to execute their plans decisively.