New Zealand and Sri Lanka will face each other in the three-match ODI series after the completion of the T20 series starting from 5th January at Basin Reserve.
Match Preview:
New Zealand enters the upcoming ODI series on a high note, having clinched the T20 series 2-1. Jacob Duffy was the standout performer for the Kiwis, picking up eight wickets in the recently concluded T20 series against Sri Lanka. The team will aim to replicate this success in the 50-over format.
In terms of batting, the onus will largely rest on Daryl Mitchell and Will Young. Young has been in impressive form, scoring 383 runs in his last seven games for New Zealand. The opener will look to continue his momentum, especially with the upcoming Tri-series and Champions Trophy in Pakistan in sight.
Mitchell and Michael Bracewell delivered excellent performances in the T20 series, and the latter’s ability to contribute with the ball adds further depth to the team. Under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, New Zealand has made a strong start, and they will aim to maintain this momentum in the ODI series.
Notably, the last time New Zealand faced Sri Lanka in this format, they lost the series. This time, the Kiwis will look to avenge that defeat.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, has shown strong form in ODIs, having defeated teams like India, New Zealand, and the West Indies in 2024. Although they are not part of the upcoming Champions Trophy, they will be motivated to perform well, especially with the Asia Cup scheduled for the same year.
Kusal Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga will be key players for Sri Lanka in this series. Both are strong contenders for the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year award, with Mendis scoring 742 runs and Hasaranga taking 26 wickets in 2024. Sri Lanka will rely heavily on these two superstars to start 2025 on a high note.
Probable Playing XI
New Zealand:
Tom Latham (wk), Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Jacob Duffy.
Sri Lanka:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Nuwanidu Fernando, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Mohamed Shiraz.
Pitch and Weather Report
The Basin Reserve pitch is expected to favor fast bowlers early on due to its typical green tinge but may become more batsman-friendly as the match progresses. Wind could also play a significant role in shaping the conditions.
The weather forecast predicts a cool and windy day with considerable cloud cover and a 59% chance of occasional rain in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to range between 13°C and 15°C.
Head-to-Head Record
A total of 105 matches have been played between these two sides, with New Zealand leading the tally with 52 victories. Sri Lanka has secured 43 wins, while nine matches ended without a result, and one match was tied.
Prediction
Given their recent performances, New Zealand is expected to win the first ODI of the series.
Where to Watch:
New Zealand: TVNZ1, Sports Nation, and The ACC
Pakistan: Tapmad
Sri Lanka: Dialog TV
India: Sony Sports, Sony LIV
Australia: Kayo Sports
UK: TNT Sports
