New Zealand and Sri Lanka will face each other in the last ODI of the ongoing series on 19th November at Pallekele.
Match Preview:
Sri Lanka has already clinched the series after winning the second ODI of the ongoing series. They showed dominating bowling performances throughout the series thus far, their batting, however, was not on par at times.
Known for their great spin department, Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffery Vandersay spun the web around Kiwis’ batter to restrict them to a modest total, 209 in 45.1 overs. Sri Lanka spin department has been on fleek in this series so far and the captain and management would hope for more of such performances keeping the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in mind.
However, the homeside needs to work on their batting lineup. The top order could not deliver well but one man stood tall and made sure his team crossed the winning line – Kusal Mendis. He was well-supported by Sri Lanka’s lower order as Theekshana and Janith Liyanage scored 27 and 22 runs, respectively.
If Sri Lanka want to sweep New Zealand, they need to put up a great batting show. Their bowling unit as of now look sorted as both spinner and pacer are doing their jobs in their respective department.
After levelling the T20 series in a remarkable fashion, The Black Caps could not performed as expected in the ODI series. Their batting unit has struggled massively against Sri Lanka. In the second ODI, only Will Young, Mark Chapman, and Mitchell Hay could contribute with the bat.
One can say they are missing their main players and the players in this lineup are a bit inexperienced. So, New Zealand would look to win the last game as a matter of pride. Chapman will be the key player for the side and the contributions from the top order will be very important for sealing the victory.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka’s Probable XI: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dunith Wellalage Asitha Fernando
New Zealand’s Probable XI:
Tim Robinson, Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Mitch Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy
Pitch and weather report:
Pallekele’s pitch is renowned for its spin-friendly conditions, which were evident in the previous match. Although batting becomes increasingly easier as the game wears on, teams opting to chase have historically held the advantage. Interestingly, 25 of the 43 ODIs played here have resulted in victories for the chasing team, potentially influencing toss tactics.
Head-to-head record:
In 103 ODI games, both nations have played against each other, and New Zealand has a better record. The Kiwi team won 52 matches while Sri Lanka came out as the winners in 42 matches. Nine games ended without a win or loss as a result.
Prediction:
Given their current form, series performance, and potent spin attack, Sri Lanka holds the edge and is likely to emerge victorious.
Where to Watch:
India: SonyLiv App
Pakistan: Tapmad
Sri Lanka: Supreme TV, Sony Sports Ten 5 HD – Ch no.124, Ten Cricket – Ch no.65, Sony Sports Ten 5
New Zealand: Sky Sports
UK: TNT Sports 2
Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan: Sony Liv
