In a rain-affected opener of the ODI series, Sri Lanka clinched a 45-run victory over New Zealand using the DLS method at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Wednesday, November 13. The match showcased stellar performances from Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, and the Sri Lankan spinners, who played pivotal roles in securing the win.
Sri Lanka’s batting dominance sets the stage
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Sri Lanka set a formidable target of 325, with impressive contributions from their top order. The Sri Lankan innings was anchored by Kusal Mendis, whose stellar 143 off 128 balls featured 17 fours and 2 sixes, establishing his role as the backbone of the innings. Avishka Fernando complemented him well, reaching a century with 100 runs off 115 balls, studded with 9 fours and 2 sixes. Together, Mendis and Fernando stitched a substantial partnership that propelled Sri Lanka to a strong total. Charith Asalanka provided a quick-fire 40 off 28 balls towards the end, pushing the total to 324/5 in 49.2 overs.
New Zealand’s bowlers faced an uphill battle against the Sri Lankan onslaught. Jacob Duffy stood out, taking 3 wickets for 41 runs in 8.2 overs, while Michael Bracewell and Ish Sodhi each claimed a wicket. However, their efforts couldn’t contain the hosts as other bowlers were expensive, with Nathan Smith conceding 66 runs in his 8 overs.
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New Zealand falters in the chase
In reply, New Zealand’s chase was thwarted by effective bowling from Sri Lanka. Will Young (48 off 46) and Tim Robinson (35 off 36) showed initial resistance, but New Zealand’s middle order crumbled as Sri Lanka maintained pressure. Bracewell contributed 34 off 32 balls, but his efforts couldn’t prevent the collapse. Fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka led Sri Lanka’s bowling attack with 3 wickets for 39 runs in his 4 overs, while spinners, Maheesh Theekshana and Charith Asalanka, chipped in with 2 wickets each, further dampening New Zealand’s hopes.
Ultimately, New Zealand managed to reach only 175/9 in 27 overs, chasing a revised target of 221. Kusal Mendis’s remarkable knock earned him the Player of the Match award.
With this win, Sri Lanka have taken a 1-0 lead in the series. The two teams will meet again for the second ODI on Sunday (November 17) at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, with New Zealand looking to bounce back.