ISLAMABAD: Oman’s captain Jatinder Singh won the toss and elected to bowl first in the Group B clash against co-hosts Sri Lanka in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Thursday.
Singh said he was happy to field first, citing conditions that could assist his bowlers early on. “There is a bit of moisture in the pitch and we want to make full use of it. If you have wickets in hand, you can accelerate,” he explained ahead of the match.
Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka welcomed the opportunity to bat first, describing the pitch as “decent” and expressing optimism that his side could put up a competitive total.
The match represents a crucial fixture for both sides. Sri Lanka, fresh from a victory over Ireland, are looking to maintain momentum and solidify their place in the Super 8 stage. Oman, meanwhile, are still searching for their first win of the tournament and will be hoping to upset the hosts with a disciplined bowling performance before challenging with the bat.
Playing conditions at Pallekele are expected to be warm with a dry surface, encouraging batters but offering early seam movement, according to match reports.
