Finalists in a number of recent ICC competitions, but can Sri Lanka shed the "bridesmaid" tag and lift the trophy?

(22nd May 2013)

Sri Lanka start the tournament with a new captain supported by some old batting stewards. Their last ODI series ended up as a disappointing tied series with Bangladesh and their win/loss ratio in ODI's since 2011 stands at 1.00, having won 31 games out of 69. Though they have a good record in global ICC events, reaching the finals on quite a few occasions in recent years, their failure to push forward and take the title has led to questions over their ability to finish tournaments.

Strengths
 

The Sri Lankan batting line-up consists of a number of star batsman at the top of the order, including Dilshan, Jayawardene and Sangakkara and their batting will be their biggest asset in the upcoming tournament.

In the bowling department, they will have the pace and experience of death-bowling specialist Lasith Malinga, whilst the talented Kulasekara will look to strike with the new ball.

They have often been called the best fielding side from the subcontinent and that still remains true, something which will be a big help for their bowlers.

Weaknesses

Besides their three main batsmen, the batting line-up has often been criticised for having a weak middle order, with younger players not performing. Batsman like Chandimal and Thirimanne will have to perform if Sri Lanka are to progress in the tournament.

Sri Lanka's greatest strength in subcontinental conditions is their spin bowling, but they could struggle on English wickets in the 50-over format, although the likes of Herath will still no doubt have a role to play.

Mathews is also a relatively inexperienced captain, but he will be able to draw on the expertise of an experienced think-tank including Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. He will also play a key role as the all-rounder in the side, so will have to perform with both bat and ball to provide balance to his side.

Players to Watch Out For

Lasith Malinga

Without a doubt the leader of the Sri Lankan pace attack. His early spell will be key in restricting the opposition. He can seemingly fire yorkers at will and is the only bowler in the world to have taken four wickets off four balls twice.

Kumar Sangakkara

Sri Lanka's main batsman will have to play a key role in this tournament. He possesses all the class and quality to play long innings. With the highest batting average (38.59) in Sri Lanka's ODI history, expectations will be high.

Mahela Jayawardene

Another key batsman in the Sri Lankan batting line-up. His average is second only to Sangakkara. Although he has recently given up the captaincy, he will serve as a good adviser to the young Mathews on the field.

Discuss!