In the first One-Day International (ODI) between New Zealand and touring Sri Lanka, the hosts claimed a resounding 9-wicket victory at the Basin Reserve in Wellington, under chilly weather conditions. After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to field first, a decision that proved fruitful.
Sri Lanka’s Innings:
Sri Lanka was bowled out for 178 runs in 43 overs, with Matt Henry leading the bowling attack, taking 4 wickets for just 19 runs. Sri Lanka’s batting highlights included:
- Avishka Fernando: 56 runs
- Janith Liyanage: 36 runs
- Wanindu Hasaranga: 35 runs
Key partnerships:
- Fernando and Liyanage put together an 87-run stand.
- Hasaranga and Vikramasinghe added 48 runs for the seventh wicket.
New Zealand’s Chase:
Chasing 179, New Zealand comfortably reached the target in just 27 overs, losing only one wicket in the process.
- Will Young: 90* (not out)
- Rachin Ravindra: 45 runs off 36 balls (6 fours, 1 six)
- Mark Chapman: 29* (not out)
New Zealand finished with 180/1, securing a dominant win and taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The second ODI between the two teams will take place on Wednesday at Seddon Park in Hamilton.