The highly anticipated second semi-final of the International Masters League 2025 (IML 2025) will see Sri Lanka Masters (SLM) lock horns with West Indies Masters (WIM) at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on March 14, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST.
Match Preview: Sri Lanka Masters vs West Indies Masters
Sri Lanka Masters had a rocky start to the season, suffering an early defeat against India Masters. However, they turned their fortunes around with a stunning comeback, securing four consecutive victories. Their last match saw a Kumar Sangakkara masterclass, where he single-handedly steered Sri Lanka to victory against England Masters with an unbeaten 106 off just 47 balls. With momentum on their side, Sri Lanka enters this semi-final as favorites.
On the other hand, West Indies Masters secured a fourth-place finish in the league stage, accumulating six points with three wins in five matches. Their encounter with Sri Lanka earlier in the season resulted in a 21-run defeat after failing to chase 174 runs. However, they bounced back with an emphatic 91-run victory over South Africa Masters, posting a massive 200-run total. Lendl Simmons was the star performer in that match, and Ravi Rampaul shone with the ball, securing five wickets.
Sri Lanka Masters vs West Indies Masters Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The Raipur pitch is known for being batting-friendly, with an average first-innings score of 202 runs. However, the dry and hot conditions mean spinners could get assistance in the latter stages of the game. Teams batting first have won 3 out of 5 matches at this venue, making the toss a crucial factor. The weather is expected to be clear, with no rain interruptions and humidity levels around 45%.
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka Masters Playing XI:
- Upul Tharanga
- Kumar Sangakkara (c & wk)
- Lahiru Thirimanne
- Romesh Kaluwitharana
- Asela Gunaratne
- Jeevan Mendis
- Seekkuge Prasanna
- Isuru Udana
- Chaturanga de Silva
- Dilruwan Perera
- Suranga Lakmal
West Indies Masters Playing XI:
- Dwayne Smith
- William Perkins
- Lendl Simmons
- Brian Lara (c)
- Ashley Nurse
- Narsingh Deonarine
- Denesh Ramdin (wk)
- Jerome Taylor
- Sulieman Benn
- Ravi Rampaul
Sri Lanka Masters vs West Indies Masters Dream11 Prediction
Sri Lanka Masters:
- Kumar Sangakkara: The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman has been in sublime form, amassing 222 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 164.26. His match-winning century against England Masters makes him the top pick for captaincy.
- Isuru Udana: A true all-rounder, Udana has scalped seven wickets and played a crucial 23-run cameo against India Masters.
- Asela Gunaratne: With 186 runs and two wickets, Gunaratne has proven to be a dependable performer for Sri Lanka.
West Indies Masters:
- Lendl Simmons: The Caribbean opener has been the most prolific batter, scoring 277 runs in just four innings at a strike rate of 188.44. He recently hammered a 108-run knock against South Africa Masters.
- Ravi Rampaul: With nine wickets in just three matches, Rampaul has been a lethal force with the ball.
- Dwayne Smith: The all-rounder has been in good touch, scoring 219 runs and also taking two wickets in five matches.
SLM vs WIM Dream11 Fantasy Teams
Head-to-Head & Small League Team:
- Wicketkeeper: Kumar Sangakkara
- Batters: Lendl Simmons, Upul Tharanga, Lahiru Thirimanne
- All-rounders: Asela Gunaratne, Dwayne Smith, Isuru Udana, Ashley Nurse
- Bowlers: Chaturanga de Silva, Ravi Rampaul, Jerome Taylor
- Captain: Lendl Simmons | Vice-captain: Kumar Sangakkara
Grand League Team:
- Wicketkeepers: Kumar Sangakkara, Chadwick Walton
- Batters: Upul Tharanga, Brian Lara
- All-rounders: Dwayne Smith, Asela Gunaratne, Isuru Udana, Jeevan Mendis
- Bowlers: Ravi Rampaul, Sulieman Benn, Suranga Lakmal
- Captain: Dwayne Smith | Vice-captain: Asela Gunaratne
SLM vs WIM Match Prediction & Betting Tips
Sri Lanka Masters hold the upper hand with their consistent form and strong performances from Sangakkara, Udana, and Gunaratne. West Indies Masters, however, boast match-winners in Simmons and Rampaul, making them a formidable opponent. With Sri Lanka winning their last four matches, we predict them to continue their dominance and book a place in the IML 2025 Final. Prediction: Sri Lanka Masters to win
Where to watch International Masters League?
The International Masters League (IML) will be broadcasted live on Colors Cineplex and Colors Cineplex Superhits channels in India. The live streaming is on the JioHotstar app.
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