In a rain-affected opener of the ODI collection, Sri Lanka clinched a 45-run victory over New Zealand utilizing the DLS methodology on the Rangiri Dambulla Worldwide Stadium on Wednesday, November 13. The match showcased stellar performances from Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, and the Sri Lankan spinners, who performed pivotal roles in securing the win.
Sri Lanka’s batting dominance units the stage
Opting to bat first after successful the toss, Sri Lanka set a formidable goal of 325, with spectacular contributions from their high order. The Sri Lankan innings was anchored by Kusal Mendis, whose stellar 143 off 128 balls featured 17 fours and a pair of sixes, establishing his position because the spine of the innings. Avishka Fernando complemented him effectively, reaching a century with 100 runs off 115 balls, studded with 9 fours and a pair of sixes. Collectively, Mendis and Fernando stitched a considerable partnership that propelled Sri Lanka to a powerful whole. Charith Asalanka offered a quick-fire 40 off 28 balls in direction of the top, pushing the whole to 324/5 in 49.2 overs.
New Zealand’s bowlers confronted an uphill battle in opposition to the Sri Lankan onslaught. Jacob Duffy stood out, taking 3 wickets for 41 runs in 8.2 overs, whereas Michael Bracewell and Ish Sodhi every claimed a wicket. Nevertheless, their efforts couldn’t include the hosts as different bowlers have been costly, with Nathan Smith conceding 66 runs in his 8 overs.
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New Zealand falters within the chase
In reply, New Zealand’s chase was thwarted by efficient bowling from Sri Lanka. Will Younger (48 off 46) and Tim Robinson (35 off 36) confirmed preliminary resistance, however New Zealand’s center order crumbled as Sri Lanka maintained stress. Bracewell contributed 34 off 32 balls, however his efforts couldn’t forestall the collapse. Quick bowler Dilshan Madushanka led Sri Lanka’s bowling assault with 3 wickets for 39 runs in his 4 overs, whereas spinners, Maheesh Theekshana and Charith Asalanka, chipped in with 2 wickets every, additional dampening New Zealand’s hopes.
In the end, New Zealand managed to achieve solely 175/9 in 27 overs, chasing a revised goal of 221. Kusal Mendis’s exceptional knock earned him the Participant of the Match award.
With this win, Sri Lanka have taken a 1-0 lead within the collection. The 2 groups will meet once more for the second ODI on Sunday (November 17) on the Pallekele Worldwide Cricket Stadium, with New Zealand seeking to bounce again.
