SL vs NZ: Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando and spinners shine as Sri Lanka seals the ODI collection opener

In a rain-affected opener of the ODI collection, Sri Lanka clinched a 45-run victory over New Zealand utilizing the DLS methodology on the Rangiri Dambulla Worldwide Stadium on Wednesday, November 13. The match showcased stellar performances from Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, and the Sri Lankan spinners, who performed pivotal roles in securing the win.

Sri Lanka’s batting dominance units the stage

Opting to bat first after profitable the toss, Sri Lanka set a formidable goal of 325, with spectacular contributions from their prime order. The Sri Lankan innings was anchored by Kusal Mendis, whose stellar 143 off 128 balls featured 17 fours and a couple of sixes, establishing his function because the spine of the innings. Avishka Fernando complemented him nicely, reaching a century with 100 runs off 115 balls, studded with 9 fours and a couple of sixes. Collectively, Mendis and Fernando stitched a considerable partnership that propelled Sri Lanka to a robust whole. Charith Asalanka offered a quick-fire 40 off 28 balls in direction of the tip, pushing the full to 324/5 in 49.2 overs.

New Zealand’s bowlers confronted an uphill battle towards the Sri Lankan onslaught. Jacob Duffy stood out, taking 3 wickets for 41 runs in 8.2 overs, whereas Michael Bracewell and Ish Sodhi every claimed a wicket. Nevertheless, their efforts couldn’t include the hosts as different bowlers have been costly, with Nathan Smith conceding 66 runs in his 8 overs.

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New Zealand falters within the chase

In reply, New Zealand’s chase was thwarted by efficient bowling from Sri Lanka. Will Younger (48 off 46) and Tim Robinson (35 off 36) confirmed preliminary resistance, however New Zealand’s center order crumbled as Sri Lanka maintained strain. Bracewell contributed 34 off 32 balls, however his efforts couldn’t stop the collapse. Quick bowler Dilshan Madushanka led Sri Lanka’s bowling assault with 3 wickets for 39 runs in his 4 overs, whereas spinners, Maheesh Theekshana and Charith Asalanka, chipped in with 2 wickets every, additional dampening New Zealand’s hopes.

Finally, New Zealand managed to achieve solely 175/9 in 27 overs, chasing a revised goal of 221. Kusal Mendis’s outstanding knock earned him the Participant of the Match award.

With this win, Sri Lanka have taken a 1-0 lead within the collection. The 2 groups will meet once more for the second ODI on Sunday (November 17) on the Pallekele Worldwide Cricket Stadium, with New Zealand trying to bounce again.