Sri Lanka defeated New Zealand by three wickets in a rain-affected 2nd ODI on the Pallekele Worldwide Cricket Stadium, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead within the three-match collection. A gritty efficiency led by Kusal Mendis and essential lower-order contributions helped the hosts overcome New Zealand’s complete of 209 in a match diminished to 47-overs per facet.
Mark Chapman guides New Zealand to a aggressive complete
After being despatched in to bat by Sri Lanka, New Zealand struggled to construct momentum, with wickets falling at common intervals. Opener Will Younger contributed 26, however it was Mark Chapman who stood out with a splendid 76 off 81 balls, together with seven fours and three sixes. He was well-supported by Mitchell Hay, who added a gradual 49 off 62 balls.
Nevertheless, the remainder of the batting lineup did not contribute considerably. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, significantly Maheesh Theekshana (3/31) and Jeffrey Vandersay (3/46), saved the strain on, making certain New Zealand have been bowled out for 209 in 45.1 overs. Asitha Fernando chipped in with two wickets, whereas Charith Asalanka and Dunith Wellalage claimed one wicket every.
Kusal Mendis anchors a nervy end for Sri Lanka
Chasing 210 below overcast circumstances, Sri Lanka’s innings was regular however tense. Pathum Nissanka offered a defensive begin with 28 off 33 balls, however fast dismissals, together with Avishka Fernando (5) and Kamindu Mendis (0), left the hosts in hassle.
Kusal Mendis then took cost, anchoring the innings with a decided 74 off 102 balls, placing six boundaries. Whereas wickets tumbled round him, Kusal displayed distinctive composure, maintaining Sri Lanka on observe. Decrease-order contributions from Janith Liyanage (22), Dunith Wellalage (18) and Maheesh Theekshana (27 not out) proved very important in sealing the victory in 46 overs.
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Michael Bracewell was New Zealand’s standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for 36 runs in his 10 overs. Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips and Nathan Smith every picked up a wicket, however New Zealand’s incapacity to defend the full was evident as Sri Lanka managed their chase effectively below strain.
Sri Lanka seal the collection with 3-wicket win over New Zealand
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With this victory, Sri Lanka have secured the three-match collection, main 2-0. The hosts received the primary ODI by 45 runs (DLS methodology) and can now goal for a clear sweep within the remaining match on Tuesday, November 19, on the identical venue.
New Zealand, then again, will look to salvage some satisfaction within the third ODI. Regardless of moments of brilliance, their batting inconsistencies and incapacity to capitalize on alternatives have value them within the collection to date.
