Australia A vs Sri Lanka A – 20 July 2025 Match Preview

Date: 20 July 2025
Time: 01:30 GMT
Format: 2nd Unofficial Test / ODI
Venue: [TBD]

Match Overview

Australia A and Sri Lanka A are set to face off in their second unofficial Test match of the series, with the encounter also carrying the structure of an ODI. This match comes at an exciting juncture in the series, following Australia A's dominant performances in recent fixtures, including a 198-run victory in the previous match.

Head-to-Head

The rivalry between Australia A and Sri Lanka A has been closely contested in the last few weeks. However, Australia A has been the standout team, winning four of the last six meetings, including two decisive 7-wicket ODI victories with over 10 overs remaining. The only wins for Sri Lanka A came in a 51-run win on 06 July and a narrow 4-wicket win in 2022 with just 7 balls to spare.

Recent Form

Australia A

Australia A has been in scintillating form, securing back-to-back wins with aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Their 198-run victory over Sri Lanka A was a masterclass in all-round cricket, and they followed it up with two dominant 7-wicket wins in the subsequent matches. The side appears to be in excellent rhythm and confidence.

Sri Lanka A

Sri Lanka A, while not as consistent, has shown glimpses of potential. Their 51-run win over Australia A was a well-balanced performance, but they have struggled to maintain that form in the subsequent fixtures. The team will need to find solutions in the middle order and improve their death overs' bowling if they are to challenge Australia A in this match.

Match Predictions

• Predicted Total Runs: 341
• Average Runs in Match: 578.7
• Predicted Winning Margin: Australia A by 7 wickets (with 105 balls to spare)
• Score Prediction: Australia A 248/4

Australia A is expected to dominate once again, thanks to their strong batting lineup and clinical bowling attack. The key to their success will likely lie in the opening and middle-order partnerships, as well as the ability to maintain pressure with the new ball.

Key Players to Watch

• Australia A:

  • Matthew Short (Captain) – The experienced skipper is expected to lead from the front with both bat and ball.
  • Ben Dwarshuis – A reliable seamer who has been instrumental in breaking partnerships.
  • Daniel Sams – The all-rounder brings a potent threat with his spin and lower-order batting.

• Sri Lanka A:

  • Chamika Karunaratne – The left-handed opener needs to anchor the innings against the Australian pace attack.
  • Lahiru Kumara – A key spinner who could be crucial in the middle overs.
  • Dhananjaya de Silva – A dangerous finisher who could turn the game in the death overs.

Venue Insights

The match is expected to be played at a venue where Australia A has historically performed well. The home advantage, combined with their recent dominance, could play a significant role in Australia A securing another convincing victory.

Conclusion

Australia A has been the dominant force in the series so far, and with their current form and depth, they are strong favorites to win this match. Sri Lanka A will need to raise their game significantly, particularly in the batting department, to pose a real challenge. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with all eyes on how the Sri Lanka A side responds to the pressure.

Prediction: Australia A by 7 wickets.
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