Sri Lanka secured a resounding 140-run victory over New Zealand in the third and final One-Day International (ODI) to avoid a series whitewash. Despite losing the series 2-1, Sri Lanka ended their ODI campaign on a high note, replicating their comeback from the T20I series.
After setting a challenging target of 290, Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated the New Zealand batting lineup. The hosts struggled from the outset, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals. Mark Chapman stood as the lone warrior for New Zealand, scoring a gritty 81, but found little support from his teammates. A brief 50-run partnership between Chapman and Nathan Smith for the eighth wicket offered a glimmer of hope, but it was too little, too late.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers were in top form, showcasing exceptional discipline and precision. Asitha Fernando spearheaded the attack with three vital wickets, leaving New Zealand in disarray early on. Eshan Malinga and Maheesh Theekshana also impressed, each picking up three wickets, while Janith Liyanage claimed one. The fielding unit backed the bowlers admirably, seizing every opportunity to tighten the screws on the hosts.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka’s batting unit delivered a solid performance. Half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Janith Liyanage laid the foundation for a competitive total. Kamindu Mendis contributed 46, narrowly missing a half-century. New Zealand’s Matt Henry stood out with a four-wicket haul, supported by Mitchell Santner’s two wickets.
Asitha Fernando was named Player of the Match for his stellar three-wicket haul. Speaking after the game, Fernando expressed his joy and credited the team’s collective effort for the win. He emphasized the importance of learning from mistakes and improving with each game.
Matt Henry, who was named Player of the Series, acknowledged the series win but admitted disappointment over the final match’s outcome. New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner praised Sri Lanka’s performance, particularly their disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, which proved decisive.
Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka commended his team’s fighting spirit and resilience. He highlighted the morale boost from the win and expressed gratitude for New Zealand’s hospitality throughout the tour.