SL vs NZ: Sri Lanka’s Dominant 140-Run Win, Triumph Finish to the ODI Series

SL vs NZ 3 ODIs Series: Sri Lanka’s First ODI Win in New Zealand Since Jan 2015

SL vs NZ: Sri Lanka secured a 140-run consolation victory in the third ODI at Auckland’s Eden Park on Saturday, January 11. This was Sri Lanka’s first ODI win in New Zealand since January 2015 and brought the series to a close on a high note for the visitors. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, SL posted a competitive total of 290/8 in their 50 overs. Pathum Nissanka’s brisk 66 off 42 balls set the tone, followed by solid contributions from Kusal Mendis (54 off 48 balls) and Janith Liyanage (53 off 52 balls). NZ’s Matt Henry was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for 55 runs in his 10-over spell, while Mitchell Santner chipped in with 2/55.

Despite some late wickets, Sri Lanka made full use of the small boundaries at Eden Park to finish strongly. New Zealand’s chase began disastrously, with Maheesh Theekshana striking in just the second over to remove Will Young. From there, it was a masterclass in swing and precision by Asitha Fernando, who dismantled the top order, taking three wickets in quick succession. New Zealand found themselves in deep trouble at 21/5 within the powerplay. Asitha ended with figures of 3/26 from his 7 overs, delivering a spell that shattered the hosts’ confidence.

SL vs NZ: New Zealand’s Top Order Crumbles Under Pressure, and Sri Lanka’s Bowlers Dominate to Secure the Win

Theekshana claimed 3/35 from 7.4 overs, while Eshan Malinga matched those figures, showing exceptional control and variation. Janith Liyanage also chipped in with a crucial wicket, removing Michael Bracewell. The Kiwis were eventually bowled out for 150, with only Mark Chapman standing tall amidst the wreckage. His innings, marked by composure and clean hitting, were the sole highlight for New Zealand in an otherwise forgettable outing. Four of their top six batters combined for a mere three runs, an alarming statistic that would be of concern ahead of their upcoming tri-series against Pakistan and South Africa.

While the match held no bearing on the series outcome, it served as a wake-up call for the hosts as they prepare for sterner tests leading up to the Champions Trophy. Sri Lanka’s bowling was exceptional, with the bowlers displaying outstanding discipline. They received superb support from the fielders, who were snatching every half-chance that came their way. Asitha Fernando was the standout performer, claiming three crucial wickets at the top to leave the New Zealand batting unit reeling. Sri Lanka has ended the ODI series on a high note, mirroring their path from the T20I series. They have defeated New Zealand by 140 runs in the final match of this tour.

Matt Henry Named Player of the Series; Asitha Fernando Wins Player of the Match

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Matt Henry is the Player of the Series. He mentions that there are lots of positives to take away from this season, and they’ll work on them. Asitha Fernando is the Player of the Match for his 3-wicket haul. He says that they didn’t do well in the first two games, but they are delighted to win this last ODI. He adds that they identified the areas to work on and improve on.