T20 World Cup 2024: Aakash Chopra hails Sri Lanka’s strong bowling line-up

Indian commentator Aakash Chopra has lauded the Sri Lankan team for their formidable bowling line-up.

Chopra, sharing his insights on his YouTube channel, highlighted the depth and talent within the Sri Lankan bowling attack. He praised the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Matheesha Pathirana, while also acknowledging the impressive form of Angelo Mathews, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, and Nuwan Thushara.

"The Sri Lankan team is very competent. Their bowling attack is outstanding - Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana. Then Angelo Mathews is bowling well and they have Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka and Nuwan Thushara," Chopra said.

This tournament marks Angelo Mathews' return to T20 internationals after a three-year hiatus. The seasoned all-rounder, who played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s victorious 2014 T20 World Cup campaign, is expected to bring experience and stability to the team.

Despite his optimism about Sri Lanka’s bowling, Chopra expressed reservations about their batting lineup. While the squad includes experienced players such as former T20I captain Dasun Shanaka and current ODI captain Kusal Mendis, Chopra remains uncertain about their consistency.

"They could have slight problems in batting - Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Charith Asalanka - how they will play? Then Dhananjaya de Silva, they will again expect batting from Angelo Mathews, and Dasun Shanaka. The batting is looking 50-50 but their bowling is looking good to me," he further added. 

It is worth noting that in a related development, it was noted that the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, which hosted a warm-up game between India and Bangladesh, presented some concerns. The Indian head coach mentioned the sandy nature of the ground, raising potential injury risks for players.