India stands at the top of the ODI World Cup table, winning six matches in a row. They need to win one out of their three remaining games to secure a spot in the semifinals. Their first chance arrives against Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.
The Indian team has 12 points from six wins, while Sri Lanka, their opponents, hold the seventh spot with two wins and four losses.
Sri Lanka’s chances for the semifinals are slim. To advance, they must win all three of their upcoming matches and rely on other teams finishing with 10 points. They face challenges due to injuries and their net run rate.
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Injuries have also troubled India, with doubts about key player Hardik Pandya’s availability. However, his replacement, Mohammad Shami, has performed well, taking nine wickets in two matches.
India has had a strong campaign, led by their bowling unit, notably Bumrah, Yadav, and Jadeja. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been pivotal in the batting department.
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With one more win, India secures their spot in the knockout stage. However, complacency isn’t an option, especially considering the frequent travel between match venues.
Sri Lanka, after a recent defeat to Afghanistan, needs a win to keep their hopes alive. The match between India and Sri Lanka holds significance, having faced each other nine times in World Cups, with an equal record.
The Wankhede Stadium holds a special place in cricket history for both teams. India’s majority wins, especially in chasing, while Sri Lanka’s loss in the 2011 World Cup final.
Rohit Sharma’s team aims for victory against Sri Lanka, eyeing another World Cup triumph at the Wankhede.
-IANS
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