New Zealand vs Sri Lanka | Cricket Match Prediction | 3rd ODI | Jan 11 – Can SL stop being whitewashed by NZ? 

NZ vs SL Match Analysis

The third ODI of the three-match series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is scheduled for Eden Park, Auckland, on January 11, 2024, starting at 07:00 a.m. BST.

New Zealand claimed the T20I series 2-1 and now holds an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series against Sri Lanka with one match remaining.

Sri Lanka suffered heavy defeats in both ODIs against New Zealand, highlighting the challenge of overcoming the hosts on their home turf.

NZ vs SL Team Preview & Squads

New Zealand 

New Zealand has established itself as a dominant ODI team, particularly regarding home conditions. Over the past five years, they have played 16 ODIs at home, losing just one. Their recent record against Sri Lanka has also been impressive, with a 5-2 advantage and one no-result in the last two years.

Following their 2-1 victory in the T20I series, New Zealand has secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. In the first ODI, New Zealand claimed a commanding 9-wicket win. After winning the toss and opting to bowl, they bowled Sri Lanka out for 178 in the 44th over. Matt Henry starred with the ball, taking 4 wickets for just 19 runs, while Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy chipped in with two wickets each. The chase was straightforward, with Rachin Ravindra scoring 45 and Will Young top-scoring with 90 runs as New Zealand comfortably reached the target with the loss of just one wicket.

The second ODI saw NZ bat first in a rain-affected match reduced to 37 overs per side. They posted a solid 255, thanks to standout performances from Rachin Ravindra (79) and Mark Chapman (62). Their bowlers made light work of the Sri Lankan batting lineup, with Will O’Rourke and Jacob Duffy claiming 5 wickets between them for just 61 runs. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 142 in the 31st over, handing New Zealand a massive 113-run victory.

With the series already in the bag, New Zealand will be aiming for a clean 3-0 sweep in the final match of Sri Lanka’s tour of New Zealand.

New Zealand Squads

New Zealand Squads

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

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s tour of New Zealand has been nothing short of disastrous. The team came to play three T20Is and three ODIs but has struggled throughout. After losing the T20I series 1-2, they have now also conceded the ODI series, with one match remaining, following their defeat in the second ODI in Hamilton.

In the first ODI, Sri Lanka was bowled out for a mere 178, unable to withstand New Zealand’s bowling attack. While Avishka Fernando and Janith Liyange contributed valuable runs, the rest of the batting order collapsed under pressure. New Zealand chased down the target with ease, securing a dominant 9-wicket victory.

The second ODI, reduced to 37 overs per side due to rain, saw Sri Lanka opt to field first. New Zealand started strong, scoring at over 7 runs per over until their second wicket fell at 143. Mahesh Theekshana provided some respite with his performance, taking 4 wickets for 44 runs in 8 overs, while Wanindu Hasaranga claimed 2 for 39 in his 8 overs.

However, Sri Lanka’s chase faltered early, losing four wickets for just 22 runs within the first five overs. Kamindu Mendis offered some resistance with a fighting 64, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to deliver. Sri Lanka was bowled out, suffering a heavy 113-run loss.

Heading into the final ODI, Sri Lanka will be eager to end the tour on a positive note. However, given their current form and New Zealand’s dominance, a victory appears highly unlikely for the visitors. 

Sri Lanka Squads

Sri Lanka Squads

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

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka outfield report

Eden Park, Auckland

About 60% of the 74 ODIs played at this location that had clear winners were won by the side that bowled first. Usually, bowlers receive early support at this New Zealand location. Here, the side that wins the toss should bowl first.

It is anticipated that Eden Park in Auckland will see good, bright weather on the day of the match.

Due to its distinctive size and extremely short, straight borders, Hidden Park is well-liked. 

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

Sri Lanka won two of the last five meetings, while New Zealand won two.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Prediction

Cricket analysts predict New Zealand has a 70% 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.