World T20 team guide: Sri Lanka

Sri lanka

Group: New Zealand, Zimbabwe

Pedigree: World Cup winners in 1999, runners-up in 2007 and co-hosts in 2011, World Twenty20 runners up in 2009, Sri Lanka are one of the genuine heavyweights of the one-day game. Their form in Twenty20 has sometimes been a little patchy, but possess proven quality.

Star man: In Ajantha Mendis, Sri Lanka have the world’s most potent limited overs bowler. Though his stock has fallen in the past year as players begin to work out a strategy against his mystery spin, his record of 56 International Twenty20 wickets at 15 is unmatched.

One to watch: Angelo Mathews, the stocky all-rounder, has been one of the stars of this year’s IPL. A robust and repeatable bowling action is backed up by a flair with the bat. Can hit the ball out of the park at will.

Strengths: Quality throughout the batting order with the likes of Tilikeratne Dilshan, Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. And, with Mendis, Lasith Malinga and Muttiah Muralidaran, a bowling attack full of experience, skill and invention.

Weaknesses: Still relying on 40-year-old Sanath Jayasuriya at the top of the order. Still very capable, but match-winning performances are becoming few-and-far-between.

Chances: Will start as one of the favourites with bookies and fans alike. Have the players and the continuity of selection to go all the way, and few are better equipped to do so.

Best odds: 6/1 with Paddypower and Totesport

Prediction: Winners