Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Match Prediction - Who will win today’s 1st T20I match between SL vs NZ?

The first T20I of the three-match series between the hosts Sri Lanka (SL) and New Zealand (NZ) is scheduled to be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, in Dambulla, on November 9, 2024. 

Notably, the Island nation is coming back to action after they got the better of the West Indies in the white-ball series, which took place in October. the Lankan Lions managed to win the series by a 2-1 margin. Moving ahead, in the follow-up to the upcoming series, Sri Lanka have in fact retained the same squad for the T20Is. 

Coming to New Zealand, they have been out of 20-over action ever since the conclusion of a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign for them. They come in with a largely inexperienced squad into the series.  

Match Details

Click Here: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, 1st T20I - Live Cricket Score

Pitch Report

The track at Dambulla, generally favours the spinners, due to its dry surface and low bounce. Hence, for the batters scoring might prove to be a touch challenging. The ball tends to grip and turn as the game progresses. Conditions under lights can bring some swing. Hence the home skipper will be tempted to have a target in sight for a calculative run chase, after winning the crucial toss.

Head-to-Head Record

Predicted Playing XIs 

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara.

New Zealand: Tim Robinson, Will Young, Mitchell Hay, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips (wk), Dean Foxcroft, Mitchell Santner (c), Zakary Foulkes, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy.

Probable Top Performers 

Probable Best Batter: Kusal Mendis

The recently concluded T20I series between Sri Lanka and West Indies saw the talented wicketkeeper-batter, Kusal Mendis, emerging as the top-scorer with 113 runs in three innings. He would be keen on carrying forward the momentum in yet another 20-over series.

Probable Best Bowler: Dunith Wellalage

The left-arm orthodox spinner Dunith Wellalage had a couple of splendid outings in the white-ball series against West Indies. With the unique angle he creates, he will be keen on putting on a good show against the Blackcaps. 

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

Scenario 1

Sri Lanka win the toss and opt to bowl first

Powerplay: 40-50

New Zealand: 145-165

Sri Lanka win the match

Scenario 2

New Zealand win the toss and opt to bowl first

Powerplay: 45-55

Sri Lanka: 180-200

Sri Lanka win the match

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.