Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Match Prediction - Who will win today’s 1st ODI match between SL vs NZ?

Courtesy of Lockie Ferguson and Glenn Phillips’ brilliant performances with the ball, New Zealand (NZ) sealed the second T20I by five runs ending the T20I series on level terms. Next up, the two teams will square off in a three-match ODI series, starting on Tuesday, November 13, in Dambulla. Ahead of that, the hosts suffered a major blow as their star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out with an injury.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s (SL) batting unit needs to step up in the ODI series, after a disastrous outing in the second and final T20I. Pathum Nissanka was the only standout performer for them and needs the likes of Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis and others to live up to their potential in the ODIs. New Zealand, on the other hand, are in an excellent run of form. After whitewashing India in the Test series, the team has done well in the T20Is as well. They have an excellent set of players and would be hoping to keep up with the momentum.

Match Details

Pitch Report

The surface in Dambulla heavily favoured the spinners in the T20I series and it's expected to remain the same in the ODI series as well. A low-scoring encounter is expected and the team winning the toss should elect to bat first. Anything over 245 runs can prove to be decisive.

Also Read: SL vs NZ 2024: Dushan Hemantha replaces injured Wanindu Hasaranga for New Zealand ODIs

Head-to-Head Record

Predicted Playing XIs 

Sri Lanka:

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.

New Zealand:

Will Young, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Jacob Duffy, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c),  Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi.

Probable Top Performers  

Probable Best Batter: Pathum Nissanka

Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka was incredible in the second T20I. Ahead of that, he had an excellent time with the bat against West Indies and the 26-year-old would be hoping to continue in the same fashion. He is extremely vital to the team, especially when other batters are struggling to find rhythm.

Click Here: Most runs in SL vs NZ 

Probable Best Bowler: Mitchell Santner

The conditions in Dambulla will hugely favour Mitchell Santner. He was excellent in the T20I series as well and given the conditions, Santner is expected to find success in the ODI series as well. The captain is in a great rhythm and if he manages to keep up with the form, the Kiwis can get the job done.

Click Here: Most Wickets in SL vs NZ

Today's Match Prediction: Sri Lanka to win the match

Scenario 1

Sri Lanka win the toss and opt to bat first

PP: 45-55

Sri Lanka: 245-265

Sri Lanka win the match

Scenario 2

New Zealand win the toss and opt to bat first

Powerplay: 35-45

New Zealand: 210-230

Sri Lanka win the match

Also Check: SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.