New Zealand is touring Sri Lanka for a three-match ODI series, where the results have favored the home side, who lead 2-0 and have already clinched the series. The tour commenced on November 13, with Sri Lanka winning the first match by 45 runs (DLS method), followed by a thrilling 3-wicket victory (DLS method) in the second game. With the final ODI approaching, New Zealand will aim to end their tour on a high note, while Sri Lanka will look to complete a series whitewash.
Sri Lanka secured a commanding 45-run victory (DLS method) over New Zealand in the 1st ODI in Dambulla. Kusal Mendis starred with a magnificent 143 off 128 balls, supported by Avishka Fernando’s century (100), as Sri Lanka posted a formidable 324/5. Rain revised New Zealand’s target to 221 in 27 overs, but they could only manage 175/9 despite Will Young’s valiant 48. Dilshan Madushanka (3/39) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/32) spearheaded the bowling attack, giving Sri Lanka a 1-0 series lead. For his outstanding 143, Kusal Mendis was named Player of the Match.
In the 2nd ODI in Pallekele, Sri Lanka edged past New Zealand, winning by 3 wickets with six balls to spare (DLS method). New Zealand managed 209, powered by Mark Chapman’s resilient 76, while Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay claimed three wickets each. Chasing a revised target of 210, Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with an unbeaten 74 off 102 balls, supported by Maheesh Theekshana’s vital 27*. Despite Michael Bracewell’s excellent figures of 4/36, Sri Lanka held their nerve to secure a 2-0 series lead. Mendis’ all-around performance, including two stumpings, earned him another Player of the Match award.
With the series already sealed in just two matches, Sri Lanka now aims to pull off an historic whitewash in the third ODI. Coached by Sanath Jayasuriya, the team has been on an incredible revival across all formats, and this series is a testimony to their resurgence. A 3-0 victory would mark Sri Lanka’s first-ever ODI whitewash against New Zealand. On the other hand, New Zealand will aim for a confidence-boosting win as they prepare for the T20I series.
The 3rd ODI between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will be held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, starting at 2:30 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 2:00 PM IST.
Squads for ODI:
Sri Lanka Men’s Cricket team:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
New Zealand Men’s Cricket team:
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Will Young
Broadcast and live streaming details:
Fans can catch the live action on the Sony Sports Network channel, with live streaming available on the SonyLiv app and website and the FanCode app and website.