NZ vs SL 2024-25: Lankans finish on a high with 140-run win in third ODI

Sri Lanka produced a stunning all-round performance to beat New Zealand by 140 runs in the inconsequential third ODI at Eden Park, Auckland on Saturday, January 11.

Having already lost the series, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka spoke about the importance of finishing off on a high at the toss after he announced his decision to bat first. Pathum Nissanka played a blinder of a knock at the top as he amassed 66 off 42 balls. Avishka Fernando took his time in the middle and got a start but couldn't capitalise.

However, Kusal Mendis played a fluent knock of 54 off just 48 balls to put Sri Lanka in a great position. He was given good support by Kamindu Mendis (46) as they stitched an 87-run partnership off 98 balls for the third wicket.

The tourists a few wickets through the middle overs as New Zealand started to fight back. However, Janith Liyanage played a fine hand of 53 off 52 balls to keep Sri Lanka afloat. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana played important cameos to take their team to 290/8 in 50 overs.

In reply, New Zealand were given an early reprieve as Will Young was dropped in the first over by Asalanka. However, the right-handed batter couldn't hurt the Asian side as he departed in the following over. Asitha Fernando picked up three wickets inside the powerplay to derail the Kiwi innings. Five out of New Zealand's top six batters were dismissed for single-digit scores.

Check Here: NZ vs SL 2024-25 | Most Runs, Wickets, Centuries & All Stats

Mark Chapman played a lone hand as he made a run-a-ball 81. However, he lacked support from the other end. The second-highest scorer in the New Zealand innings was Nathan Smith, who made 17. The Blackcaps were bowled out for 150 in 29.4 overs after Eshan Malinga wiped out the tail. Asitha, Theekshana, and Malinga bagged three wickets apiece, while Liyanage chipped in with the solitary scalp of Michael Bracewell.

As the game ended in the Lankan Lions' favour, they ended the series with a consolation win, as the BlackCaps had already won the series with successive wins in the first couple of ODIs. Next up, Sri Lanka will host Australia for a two-Tests series, while the Kiwis are to travel to Pakistan for the tri-nation series followed by the much-awaited Champions Trophy 2025.