Kusal Mendis demonstrated remarkable resilience by managing an injury and scoring a crucial half-century, which propelled Sri Lanka to a three-wicket victory over New Zealand in their rain-affected second One-Day International at Pallekele on Sunday. With this triumph, Sri Lanka clinched the three-match series with a commendable 2-0 lead.
In their pursuit of a target set at 210 runs, Sri Lanka faced significant challenges in forming steady partnerships, particularly on a pitch that favored spin. The team found itself in a precarious position at 93 runs for the loss of five wickets. However, Mendis showcased his determination and skill, battling through a groin injury sustained early in his innings. He finished with an impressive unbeaten score of 74 runs off 102 balls, guiding his team to victory.
Contributions from Janith Liyanage, who scored 22 runs, Dunith Wellalage with 18, and Maheesh Theekshana’s valuable 27 runs, helped ease the pressure on the host side. These late innings performances were crucial, particularly in the face of a strong bowling display from Michael Bracewell, who delivered a standout performance with figures of four wickets for 36 runs.
This series victory marks a significant achievement for Sri Lanka, as it is their first ODI series win against New Zealand since 2012 and their fifth bilateral series triumph in 2024.
Sri Lanka's captain made the strategic decision to field first, which proved effective at the start of the innings as they quickly claimed two early wickets. Opener Will Young contributed a steadying 26 runs, navigating the initial onslaught until rain disrupted the match, leading to a reduction of the game to 47 overs per side.
As the innings resumed, Mark Chapman played an essential role, scoring 76 runs, while Mitchell Hay provided further support with a score of 49. Together, they established a solid foundation for New Zealand. However, the situation changed dramatically once their partnership, worth 75 runs, ended, resulting in a rapid decline in the New Zealand batting order. Ultimately, the tourists fell to a modest total of 209 runs, a result aided by Sri Lankan fielders who demonstrated sharp catching skills.
The Sri Lankan spinners were instrumental in this collapse, with Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay each claiming three wickets. Their efforts restricted New Zealand's scoring options and contributed to the last six wickets tumbling for a mere 36 runs. Asitha Fernando also played a pivotal role, taking 2 wickets for 37 runs, including the critical dismissal of Chapman. Chapman had been on track for his third ODI century, having struck seven boundaries and three sixes, until Avishka Fernando executed a breathtaking catch in the deep.
This series of matches demonstrated Sri Lanka's capabilities and adaptability, particularly in the rain-hit series opener in Dambulla, where they secured a victory by 45 runs utilizing the DLS method. In that game, Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando both made significant centuries, underscoring the depth of talent within the squad.
As this chapter closes, attention shifts to the final match scheduled in Pallekele, where Sri Lanka will aim to conclude the series on a high note with a clean sweep against New Zealand on Tuesday. This victory not only enhances Sri Lanka's standing in ODI cricket but also instills confidence as they prepare for future challenges.