India aims to seal semis spot

After beating Pakistan by 124 runs, India will start as overwhelming favourite against Sri Lanka, which looked in total disarray during its 96-run defeat at the hands of South Africa. The only worry is the fickle London weather, with forecasts of 40 percent chance of heavy rainfall. 

Contrasting performances aside, the sheer difference in quality also puts India a few notches ahead of the cricketers from the island nation. 

On paper, the two sides are a total mismatch. While India ticked almost all the boxes in its victory against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, in its opening fixture, looked as if it has only entered the tournament to add numbers. 

The winner of the last edition has a formidable batting line-up, which is being backed well by a potent bowling attack. 

And therein lies the problem with Sri Lanka, which is a side that is going through a rebuilding phase for the longest time now. To make matters worse, the form and fitness of regular captain Angelo Mathews is a cause for concern, while senior opener Upul Tharanga’s two-match suspension has added insult to injury. 

It’s two years since both Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara quit ODIs post the 2015 World Cup but Sri Lanka has not been able to single out even a couple of players, who can show steely resolve. 

The likes of Dinesh Chandimal or Chamara Kapugedara have been around for some time but both have been guilty of not realising their full potential till date. 

No wonder Sangakkara has made it clear that Sri Lanka needs to show aggression against India while conceding that it may not be easy for his players. For India, playing Sri Lanka before facing South Africa is an advantage as it can go into the final group league game with a free mind. 

Rohit Sharma hitting 91 on comeback is a reassurance while Shikhar Dhawan’s positive approach will keep the ‘Men in Blue’ in good stead. Skipper Virat Kohli has over the years been Sri Lanka’s nemesis and his 81 not out against Pakistan, is just the tonic he needed before taking on the likes of Lasith Malinga, Suranga Lakmal and  Nuwan Pradeep. 

Yuvraj Singh was in vintage form at Edgbaston and a placid Oval pitch will only help get a few more runs under his belt. Hardik Pandya’s power hitting at No 7 and his ability to chip in with quick wickets makes this Indian side more intimidating. 

The only thing that Virat Kohli would want now is Mahendra Singh Dhoni getting some batting time before the big game against South Africa. For Sri Lanka, this is a do-or-die match where a lot will depend on skipper Mathews and Malinga.