World Cup 2023, Australia vs Sri Lanka: Lucknow, Ekana Cricket Stadium weather and pitch report

Australia have started rather poorly this World Cup as they have lost both their matches so far in the competition. After being outplayed by India in their first match, they were beaten by South Africa by 134 runs in their next match of the ongoing World Cup 2023.

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Chasing a target of 313 runs, Australia were knocked out for just 177 in 40.5 overs, courtesy of a three-wicket haul by Kagiso Rabada. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi picked up two wickets each. For Australia, Marnus Labuschange was the top scorer with a knock of 46 runs off 74 balls.

The Pat Cummins-led side will now lock horns with Sri Lanka on Monday, 16 October at Lucknow’s Ekana Cricket Stadium.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, have been brushed away by South Africa and Pakistan in their two matches so far. They first conceded more than 428 runs against South Africa in the first match and then, Pakistan smashed them to gun down a target of 345 runs in Hyderabad and won the contest by six wickets and with 10 balls to spare.

For Sri Lanka, the big worry was their bowling. Their batting, led by Kusal Mendis, posted 344 against Pakistan, but they were let down by the bowlers. They will once again be under the pump against Australia – a side that will be keen to bounce back after their first couple of losses.

Australia vs Sri Lanka: Lucknow weather forecast for World Cup match

It is expected to be a hot, sultry day in Lucknow. The temperature during the match is expected to be around 34 degrees. It is unlikely to rain with no cloud cover to provide respite. The humidity is expected to be around 36 per cent. The temperature will drop down to 28 degrees when the sun sets.

Australia vs Sri Lanka: Pitch report from Lucknow Ekana Stadium

The Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow has a relaid pitch for the World Cup and it was a good strip for the match against Australia and South Africa. The pitch had good bounce but also assisted the spinners as the matches panned out.