The short but important series is going to kick off on 3rd November. The series is important for two reasons: World Cup is just around the corner, Ashes is next month. The tour opener T20 was won comprehensively by Sri Lanka. That result may play a significant role on Wednesday's game.
Australia just lost their first ever T20 game at home. There is little doubt that Australian team is going through a horrendous time, nothing seems to be going right for them. The former imperial master is losing its way, that too at the worst possible time.
Australia would be strengthened by the return of Ricky Ponting, Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson. The return of the embattled captain Ponting may not be as welcomed as it seems. Shane Watson however has been in supreme form for a long time now, perhaps the only Australian in recent times who have shown the true class that Aussies once had.
Nathan Hauritz, the struggling Australian spinner will be accompanied by Steve Smith and the surprise selection Xavier Doherty, the Tasmania spinner. The return of injured keeper Brad Haddin was a decent one. Australians are surely feeling the heat; it would be interesting to see how they cope with it. Michael Clarke said that Australia need to find form before the Ashes. Australia are always a tough team to beat at home. The game on 3rd November can spark an Aussie revival or can further dump them down.
Australia have won two of their last completed 5 games.
Sri Lankans are having problems of their own. Back in home there have been criticisms on the national teams and involvement of politics in cricket. Sangakara, the Sri Lankan captain remains positive and says their team is preparing for the World Cup amid controversies.
Sri Lanka have had a decent time on the field, winning Asia Cup and Triangular series in Zimbabwe. Sri Lanka looked a well gelled unit when they crushed Australia at WACA. Angelo Mathews return from an injury will boost Sri Lankan bowling and lower order batting.
Murlitharan has only one day cricket on his mind now. Sri Lankan bowling made Australian batsmen hop around at WACA; Suraj Randiv was the most impressive. Lasith Malinga found excellent form and rhythm on the tour opener. The Sri Lankans know that Australia is a tough opponent at home, but they would be confident ahead of Wednesday's game.
Sri Lanka have managed three victories out of their last five games.
