The Asian neighbors are all set to lock horns against each other in a 3-match ODI series on Sri Lankan soil. Afghanistan and Pakistan will use this series as a great opportunity to assess the condition of Sri Lanka where the Asia Cup 2023 will take place in just a few weeks. Here is Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium Hambantota Pitch Report and more.
The two teams are playing the ODI series against each other for the first time ever as they have faced each other in the Multi nations tournament only.
Pakistan and Afghanistan have faced each other on only 4 occasions in ODIs, the men in green have managed to win all 4 of them. However, the Afghan boys can turn things around this time as they are in form after defeating Bangladesh 2-1 in their home recently.
AFG vs PAK 2023 ODI series Schedule
1st ODI on 22nd August at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, Hambantota
2nd ODI on 24th August at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, Hambantota
3rd ODI on 26th August at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium Hambantota Pitch Report
It is a venue that offers equal assistance to both batters and bowlers as well. However, the pitch gets a bit sluggish as the game progresses which results in spinners dominating the game in the middle overs. Batters will have a great time with the new ball against the fast bowlers as there is a minimal amount of swing and lateral movement on offer.
Moreover, the seamers can actually change their pace and move their fingers around the seam to extract the maximum amount of benefit from this surface.
The toss winner should opt to bowl first as the wicket is very helpful in the daylight in comparison to under-lights.
Hambantota Weather Forecast
There will be a partly cloudy atmosphere in Hambantota for the 1st ODI on Tuesday. However, there will be no interruption caused by the clouds as there is a 0% chance of precipitation. The temperature will be slightly hot and humid with a wind speed of 32kmph.
ODI Records at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium
Total matches: 26
Matches won batting first: 10
Matches won bowling first: 13
Average 1st Inns scores: 249
Average 2nd Inns scores: 196
Highest total recorded: 368/4 (50 Ov) by SL vs PAK
Lowest total recorded: 112/10 (33.1 Ov) by KEN vs PAK
Highest score chased: 312/2 (47.2 Ov) by SL vs ZIM
Lowest score defended: 314/6 (50 Ov) by IND vs SL
