Cricket Match Prediction | New Zealand vs Sri Lanka | 1st ODI | Jan 05 – Can SL back their good performance?

NZ vs SL Match Analysis

The first ODI of the three-match series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is scheduled for Basin Reserve, Wellington, on January 05, 2024, starting at 04:00 a.m. BST.

After securing a 2-1 victory in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand is now shifting its attention to the ODI series starting this Sunday. This series is an important opportunity for the hosts to prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy in February.

For Sri Lanka, who won’t be competing in the Champions Trophy, the series provides an opportunity to reorganize their squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup and build on the promise they showed last year.

NZ vs SL Team Preview & Squads

New Zealand 

New Zealand’s recent ODI form has been underwhelming, with three defeats in their last four matches. However, their recent home series win against Bangladesh offers a confidence boost as they aim to carry that momentum into the series against Sri Lanka.

The batting lineup seems well-suited to home conditions, with Will Young, the leading run-scorer in their last ODI series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, poised to play a crucial role. Rachin Ravindra, in outstanding form across formats, is expected to deliver a standout performance during this series.

In recent months, experienced players Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham have been dependable with the bat and will strengthen the middle order. On the bowling front, Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke will be tasked with making early breakthroughs. Meanwhile, Jacob Duffy, who claimed 8 wickets in the recent T20I series against Sri Lanka, is likely to feature and continue his impressive form.

New Zealand Squads

New Zealand

Mitchell Hay, Tom Latham, Will Young, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, and Will O’Rourke.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has been in excellent form in ODIs, securing three consecutive series wins against India, the West Indies, and New Zealand. However, these victories were achieved on home soil, and adjusting to overseas conditions in this series will pose a significant challenge for the team.

The batting lineup is brimming with talent, featuring players like Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, and Pathum Nissanka. Mendis and Fernando are particularly pivotal, known for their ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. Captain Charith Asalanka brings stability to the middle order and can also contribute with his spin, a skill he showcased effectively in the T20Is against New Zealand.

Dunith Wellalage continues to prove his value as a reliable all-rounder, especially with the bat. Wanindu Hasaranga remains SL’s primary wicket-taking threat, complemented by Jeffrey Vandersay, who has been in good form. Asitha Fernando is likely to lead the pace attack, though concerns remain about the depth and effectiveness of their seam options if he struggles. 

Sri Lanka Squads

Sri Lanka

Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Dunith Wellalage.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka outfield report

Basin Reserve, Wellington

Out of 30 ODIs at the Basin Reserve, the team that batted first won 16, while the team chasing won 11. These statistics point to a modest advantage for batting first. During the game, Wellington will see overcast and windy conditions. A few morning rains are possible, which could cause the game to be interrupted or postponed. 

In ODI matches, the Basin Reserve in Wellington is renowned for its bat-ball balance. The pitch helps seamers move early on, particularly in cloudy conditions. As the day goes on, it usually flattens out, giving batters good bounce and pace as they execute their strokes. 

NZ vs SL Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last five encounters, New Zealand has won 2 and Sri Lanka has won two.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Prediction

Cricket analysts predict New Zealand has a 65% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.