The 3-match One-Day International (ODI) series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is set to begin on January 5, 2025, and both teams enter the contest with an equal chance of securing a victory. The first ODI is crucial as both sides aim to gain momentum for the upcoming Champions Trophy, adding extra significance to the series.
Historically, New Zealand holds a slight edge in the head-to-head statistics, with 52 wins against Sri Lanka’s 43 in ODI matchups. Additionally, 10 matches between the two sides have ended without a result. New Zealand’s win rate stands at 54%, showing their dominance in recent years, but Sri Lanka is not far behind, having been competitive in many encounters.
This ODI series forms a part of Sri Lanka’s white-ball tour of New Zealand, and the first match will be held at the Cello Basin Reserve in Wellington. The action will then move to Hamilton and Auckland for the subsequent matches. The significance of this series is amplified with the Champions Trophy looming, making it a vital preparation for both teams.
New Zealand enters the series on the back of a 2-1 victory in the recent T20I series against Sri Lanka, though they are not fielding their full-strength squad. A few senior players are unavailable due to commitments in franchise leagues. This series marks Mitchell Santner’s first ODI assignment as the full-time captain of the New Zealand team. The left-arm spinner will be crucial in leading the spin department alongside Michael Bracewell, who is known for his all-round capabilities. The pace attack is in capable hands with Matt Henry and the promising William O’Rourke, alongside Jacob Duffy, who impressed in the T20I series. ODI specialists Will Young and Tom Latham add stability to the batting lineup, while players like Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips provide valuable depth.
Sri Lanka, coming off a confidence-boosting win in the final T20I, will be eager to carry that momentum into the ODI series. They will rely on the consistency of Pathum Nissanka, who has been a steady performer, while the likes of Charith Asalanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, and Kusal Mendis will be looking to contribute significantly as the team prepares for the Champions Trophy. Sri Lanka’s major changes come in the bowling department, particularly with the pace attack. Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara bring experience and raw pace, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will provide their expertise in spin. New additions to the squad, such as Dunith Wellalage and Jeffrey Vandersay, will add variety and depth to Sri Lanka’s bowling options.
The last time Sri Lanka won a bilateral ODI series on New Zealand soil was in 2001, and they will be eager to break this long-standing streak. With both teams fielding strong line-ups, the first ODI promises to be an exciting contest, and it will be intriguing to see who comes out on top.