Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Match Preview, 2nd ODI

In a rain-marred game, Sri Lanka (SL) defeated New Zealand (NZ) by 45 runs via Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. The hosts excelled with the bat in the first innings, as Avishka Fernando and Kusal Mendis registered a century each. Their partnership of 202 runs proved costly for the Kiwis, who failed to step up their game during the pursuit of their target set by the Lankans.

New Zealand’s quality with the ball is what bothered them in the ongoing series. They have good options but the team heavily missed the services of Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson as they could have made a difference. Their bowling unit lacks experience and character as well, which is concerning, but after all, every team goes through transitions.

Mitchell Santner & Co. batting unit will have to be consistent as well. There’s enormous talent, but they have failed to live up to the expectations. The absence of Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway might be hurting them.

The Lankan Lions, on the other hand, had all of their first team player except Wanindu Hasaranga. However, he wasn’t missed as much in the first ODI, as all the other bowlers put up a good show. All they would hope for is to keep up with the momentum and seal the series in the second ODI in Pallekele.

Match Details

Check Here: SL vs NZ Match Prediction – Who will win today's 2nd ODI match?

Pitch Report

The surface in Pallekele traditionally supports the spinners and the trend can continue in the second ODI. In case, it remains the same, the BlackCaps will be hopeful of putting up a better show with the ball. Meanwhile, batting first will be ideal, as the surface can deteriorate as the game progresses.

Also Check: SL vs NZ Schedule 2024

Probable Playing XIs

Sri Lanka

There’s no need for Sri Lanka to change the winning combination. The top order has put up a good show with the bat and that is what Sri Lanka would want again to happen. It sets the tone for the middle order. 

Probable Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (Wicketkeeper), Charith Asalanka (Captain), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.

Click Here: Most runs in SL vs NZ

New Zealand

New Zealand don’t have enough options. All they would hope for is to produce a better show with both bat and bowl.

Probable Playing XI: Tim Robinson, Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Mitch Hay (Wicketkeeper), Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (Captain), Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy