Sri Lanka out to redeem lost prestige

By M. Shamil Amit

Sri Lanka will look to redeem their lost prestige by recording a consolation victory when they take on New Zealand in the third and final T20I at the Pallekele Stadium in Kandy today (6).

New Zealand have already clinched the three-match series having chalked up two close wins in the first two games and as a result today’s fixture will be of academic interest.

However, the two teams are plagued with injuries and Sri Lanka would most probably miss two of their key players, Kusal Mendis and Shehan Jayasuriya.

Both players are still recovering from their collision near the boundary rope during the final over of New Zealand's run chase on Tuesday at the same venue.

Sri Lanka Skipper Lasith Malinga is one short of becoming the first bowler to reach the milestone of 100 T20I wickets.

Meanwhile, New Zealand would welcome the return of Ross Taylor who missed out the second T20I due to an injury.

But the Kiwis will be minus another top player, Martin Guptill while Tom Bruce who came in place of Taylor is also in the injured list.

Lockie Ferguson had already been ruled out of the series with a fractured thumb while Hamish Rutherford, the left-handed batsman has been added to the squad as cover.

There are chances of rain in the afternoon, which might leave moisture and dew on the outfield.

Bowling will get difficult as the evening progresses and considering the last two results, both captains will be tempted to field first.