New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Match Preview, 2nd ODI

New Zealand and Sri Lanka. (Photo Source: Twitter/X)

New Zealand (NZ) are all set to host Sri Lanka (SL) in the ongoing ODI series progresses ahead. Notably, both sides will lock horns in the second ODI at Seddon Park, in Hamilton, on Wednesday, January 8. It is worth noting that the first ODI of the series was won by the Black Caps and they will hope to put in another good showing. 

The first ODI of the series was held in Wellington on January 5, and the clash saw Sri Lanka coming in to bat first and posting a total of 178 runs on the board. Avishka Fernando’s 56-run knock as the opener was the best that the visitors had to offer in the first ODI. As for New Zealand, Matt Henry was their highest wicket-taker with four wickets to his name. 

Aiming to chase down a target of 179 runs, New Zealand put in a brilliant performance as Will Young’s 90-run knock while all rounder Rachin Ravindra added 45 runs on the board, as the Black Caps won the game by nine wickets. 

Match Details

Pitch Report

The surface at the Seddon Park in Hamilton is one that is preferred by the batters. A high-scoring encounter could be quite the possibility on such a pitch. Therefore for the Skipper winning the toss in the second ODI, opting to bat first could be a wise decision at this venue.

Head-to-Head Record

Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka:

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Wanindu Hasaranga, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Janith Liyanage.

New Zealand:

Will Young, Mark Chapman, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Hay (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (c), Will O’Rourke, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Nathan Smith/ Michael Bracewell.