Will Sri Lanka's Decision to Bowl First Impact the 4th T20I Against India?
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Synopsis
As the fourth T20I unfolds in Thiruvananthapuram, Sri Lanka’s decision to bowl first sets the stage for an intriguing clash against India, who aim to extend their series lead. With key player changes on both sides, the match promises excitement and intense competition.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka opted to bowl first after winning the toss.
- India has made two changes in their lineup.
- Harleen Deol replaces Jemimah Rodrigues due to illness.
- The pitch conditions may favor both batting and seam bowling.
- India leads the series 3-0.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 28 (NationPress) - In a strategic move, Sri Lanka has chosen to bowl first after winning the toss in the fourth T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium on Sunday. India has already secured a commanding 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Harleen Deol and Arundhati Reddy have been introduced into India's lineup for this match.
This marks the first time India will bat in this series, having previously opted to bowl and utilized dew conditions to successfully chase down manageable totals. Harleen steps in for the ill Jemimah Rodrigues, while Arundhati, who participated in the first two games in Visakhapatnam, takes the place of a rested Kranti Gaud.
“We were aiming to bat today. This series serves as an excellent opportunity to provide everyone a chance. I’m pleased that our plans are unfolding well. I’m delighted to see everyone stepping up and performing their best. I’m not setting any specific target. Hopefully, we can establish a solid total,” stated Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka's captain Chamari Athapaththu, playing her 150th T20I, announced that Rashmika Sewwandi and Kawya Kavindi are joining their team in place of the rested Malki Madara and Inoka Ranaweera.
“We have batted first in the last three matches. Chasing will be somewhat easier with the dew factor. We need to deliver our best performance. A target of 140 would be reasonable to chase,” she added.
The match will take place on pitch number seven, where square boundaries are 59m and 60m, while the straight boundary is set at 70m. According to experts Mithali Raj and Shebani Bhaskar, the pitch appears darker compared to the last game, with some grass trimmed off, providing favorable conditions for batting while also aiding seamers if they maintain a disciplined length targeting the stumps.
Playing XIs:
India: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Arundhati Reddy, Vaishnavi Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Sree Charani.
Sri Lanka: Hasini Perera, Chamari Athapaththu (c), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushani Nuthyangana (wk), Malsha Shehani, Rashmika Sewwandi, Kawya Kavindi, and Nimesha Madushani.
Point of View
I believe that this match, set against the backdrop of India's dominant series lead, will not only be a test of strategy but also a showcase of emerging talent. It's essential for both teams to adapt and respond to the evolving game situation, ensuring a competitive spirit thrives in women's cricket.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the toss in the 4th T20I?
Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first.
What changes were made to India's playing eleven?
Harleen Deol and Arundhati Reddy replaced Jemimah Rodrigues and Kranti Gaud, respectively.
What is the significance of this match for Sri Lanka?
This match is crucial for Sri Lanka as they aim to secure a win and avoid a series whitewash.
What are the conditions of the pitch for today's match?
The pitch appears favorable for batting but may also assist seam bowlers if they maintain a disciplined length.
How does the series stand before this match?
India leads the series 3-0, having already secured an unassailable position.
