Sri Lanka to play two T20s against Oman before T20 World Cup

To step up their preparations for the T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka will play two warm-up matches against Oman ahead of the showpiece event. Sri Lanka did not secure automatic qualification for the Super 12s and will have to go through a qualifying round to book their berth in the Super 12s.

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They are clubbed with Ireland, Netherlands and Namibia in Group A and will open their campaign against Namibia on October 18 in Abu Dhabi before clashing with Ireland on 20th at the same venue. They play their last qualifying match against the Netherlands on October 22. 

Sri Lanka will depart for Oman on October 3 and will play two games against the hosts on October 7 and 9 respectively. Post the warm-up games, the Lankan Lions have two official practice games scheduled on October 12 and 14.

"We are looking to play as many games as possible leading into the World Cup in similar conditions the team will experience in the UAE. The games against Oman and the 2 ICC practice games will allow us this opportunity," said SLC CEO Ashley de Silva.

Sri Lanka have picked up some momentum in the build-up to the showpiece event and picked up the T20I series win over India before defeated South Africa in the ODI series. Both Sri Lanka and South Africa have a three match T20I series left to be played. 

Meanwhile, along with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh will also have to go through a qualifying round. The Tigers are pooled with Scotland, Papua New Guinea and Oman in Group B. The top two teams from each qualifying group will progress to the next round.