In a compelling encounter in Dambulla, Sri Lanka triumphed over New Zealand by 45 runs, leveraging the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method due to rain interruptions. Sri Lanka set a formidable target of 324 runs for the visiting team, thanks to remarkable centuries from Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando, who built a 206-run partnership for the second wicket.
Sri Lanka's innings began on a shaky note with the early dismissal of Pathum Nissanka. However, Kusal and Avishka swiftly established dominance, accumulating runs progressively. Their partnership is now recognized as the highest ever for the second wicket in One Day Internationals (ODIs) between these two teams, underlining their crucial role in the match. Kusal Mendis scored an impressive 143 runs off 128 deliveries, marking his career-best in ODIs. Avishka Fernando also contributed significantly, scoring 100 runs off 88 balls. Their collective efforts propelled Sri Lanka to a commendable total of 324 runs for the loss of five wickets in 49.2 overs.
Despite not being particularly conducive to spin, the pitch provided enough support to bowlers who could manipulate the conditions effectively. This aspect became evident when rain disrupted play, resulting in New Zealand being set a challenging target of 221 runs from just 27 overs, a target most teams would find daunting under such circumstances.
When play resumed, New Zealand’s innings started with promise. Openers Will Young and Tim Robinson managed to push the score to 88 runs within 80 deliveries. However, once Sri Lanka broke this opening partnership, the New Zealand chase collapsed dramatically. The majority of their top order fell victim to the spin attack led by Sri Lankan bowlers. Young contributed a solid 48 runs, while Robinson added 35 and Bracewell remained not out on 34. Ultimately, New Zealand finished their innings at 175 runs for nine wickets in 27 overs, falling short as their batting lineup struggled to match the required run rate.
The Sri Lankan spin contingent executed their plans with remarkable efficiency, claiming five wickets for only 22 runs after the openers’ departure. This bowling collapse left New Zealand with insufficient firepower in their lower order to recover and accelerate their scoring rate, as they clearly missed blitzes that could have changed the momentum. A frustrating afternoon for the visitors revealed their inability to counteract the formidable skill of Sri Lanka's spinners.
The partnership between Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando was built on a solid foundation of careful accumulation and strategic aggression. They capitalized during the initial powerplay, scoring 57 runs and establishing early momentum. Their partnership exhibited effective shot selection; Kusal Mendis demonstrated his prowess through powerful strikes, while Avishka Fernando expertly manipulated the field, finding gaps with ease.
Although Mendis benefitted from a dropped catch early in his innings, he quickly regained focus and continued scoring with a mixture of boundless energy and strategic placements. By the time Kusal reached his half-century, he had faced 64 deliveries, setting the tone for a more aggressive approach. Avishka followed shortly after, attaining his milestone off 60 balls. The two flyers made sure to maintain the pressure on the New Zealand bowlers, closely monitoring the match situation while pushing toward higher boundaries.
As the innings progressed, Kusal achieved his century in the 37th over, while Avishka reached his fourth ODI hundred shortly after. This stellar performance was crucial in setting up a commanding platform for the Sri Lankan innings. Despite Avishka’s eventual dismissal, the pair had laid a solid foundation, with Sri Lanka well-placed at 223 runs for the loss of two wickets in the 39th over.
Charith Asalanka contributed to the surge, displaying effective aggressive batting before rain interrupted play once again. Upon the resumption of play, DLS adjustments came into effect, significantly altering New Zealand's target. Rain briefly halted the match, but the momentum built by Sri Lanka's batsmen remained intact.
Conversely, following the departure of their opening duo, New Zealand's lineup crumbled under Sri Lanka's sustained pressure. Maheesh Theekshana was a standout performer, taking the crucial wickets of Robinson and Young in a decisive over. Following that, Asalanka contributed by claiming two wickets, leading to the fall of New Zealand’s next batsman, Henry Nicholls. The Sri Lankan bowlers effectively dismantled the New Zealand batting order, securing victory by navigating through the clutter of wickets.
Among the New Zealand players, Jacob Duffy’s performance stood out as he claimed three wickets for 41 runs in his stint. His continuous contributions have positioned him well for potential inclusion in future games. Additionally, the debutantes Nathan Smith and Mitchell Hay along with Robinson showcased glimpses of promise, hinting at the depth within New Zealand's ranks.
Sri Lanka's clinical display in both batting and bowling will resonate positively within the squad as they look to build momentum from this victory into upcoming matches. The team demonstrated not only their ability to perform under pressure but also established their bowling capabilities in successfully defending a substantial total. The insights gathered from this match will undoubtedly contribute to forming strategic plans for their next outings on the international stage.