Sri Lanka will host Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium in the ICC World T20 semi-finals. The Lankans have shown resiliency both on and off the pitch and are prime contenders for the championship. Due to a loss against South Africa in a rain-limited match, they are second in their group. However, the defeat turned out to be a positive, as it allowed the Lankans to play lower quality competition in West Indies and New Zealand.

Upon entering the Super Eight, Sri Lanka began to ignite together as a team. They made some key decisions that served to spark their play. Skipper Mahela Jayawardene was promoted up in the order and Akila Dananjaya was put into play as well. In another bold move, they made Kumar Sangakkara their captain in the last game in order to minimize the risk of losing their original skipper to a potential ban. Overall, their players have performed at their peak in pressure-filled situations.  

All the right pieces have fallen into place for Sri Lanka thus far, as the top of their order has done potent damage while in the PowerPlays. Their bowlers haven't performed too shabby neither, as they've continued to obtain regular wickets.

Although the spinners have remained Sri Lanka's biggest concern, Ajantha Mendis has been consistent, and Akila Dananjaya and Lasith Malinga have progressed as the competition continues.

The task at hand against Pakistan will be a grueling one. Sri Lanka has had limited success against the Men in Green over the past couple of years. However, they did overtake the team in a home series played earlier in the year, which should give them the momentum they need heading into the semi-finals match.

CLICK HERE to watch Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan via live stream. Coverage of the game will begin on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 19:00 IST.

Tags: T20 World Cup Cricket television