Sri Lanka secured a hard-fought three-wicket win over New Zealand in the rain-affected second ODI at Pallekele on Sunday, clinching the three-match series 2-0. The victory marked Sri Lanka’s first ODI series win against New Zealand since 2012 and their fifth bilateral series triumph in 2024.
Chasing a target of 210 in a match reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain interruptions, Sri Lanka faced early trouble on a challenging, turning pitch. At 93-5, the hosts were in dire straits before Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a resilient, unbeaten 74 off 102 balls. Battling a groin injury sustained early in his innings, Kusal displayed exceptional composure under pressure.
Crucial contributions from Janith Liyanage (22), Dunith Wellalage (18), and a vital 27 not out from Maheesh Theekshana eased Sri Lanka’s nerves, ensuring they crossed the finish line with seven balls to spare. New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell was a standout with the ball, claiming 4-36 and keeping the visitors in contention until the late stages of the game.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s decision to bowl first paid dividends as they grabbed two quick wickets. However, opener Will Young (26) steadied New Zealand before the rain disruptions. Mark Chapman (76) and Mitchell Hay (49) stitched together a 75-run partnership to lay a solid platform for the visitors.
Despite their efforts, New Zealand’s innings unraveled after the partnership ended, as they lost their last six wickets for just 36 runs. Sri Lanka’s spinners, led by Theekshana (3-31) and Jeffrey Vandersay (3-46), bamboozled the tourists with sharp turn and accuracy. The standout moment in the field came from Avishka Fernando, whose spectacular diving catch in the deep dismissed Chapman, cutting short what seemed like a certain century.
New Zealand was eventually bowled out for a modest 209, a target that proved competitive given the conditions.
Sri Lanka had earlier won the rain-hit series opener in Dambulla by 45 runs via the DLS method, thanks to centuries from Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando. The series finale will be played at Pallekele on Tuesday, where Sri Lanka will aim for a clean sweep, while New Zealand will look to salvage some pride.
