The second ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is set to take place at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on November 17, 2024. This match is crucial for both teams, especially Sri Lanka, who are looking to extend their lead in the series after winning the first ODI by 45 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.
Match Details:
- Date: November 17, 2024
- Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy
- Result: TBD (Hypothetical review as the match hasn’t started)
Team Overviews:
New Zealand: Led by captain Tom Latham, New Zealand’s squad includes experienced players like Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor, along with promising talents like Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner. The team is eager to bounce back after their defeat in the first ODI and level the series.
Sri Lanka: Under the captaincy of Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka boasts a balanced squad with a mix of seasoned campaigners and young players. Key performers like Avishka Fernando and Kusal Mendis have been in excellent form, and the team is looking to capitalize on their home advantage.
Key Players:
New Zealand:
- Kane Williamson: The experienced batsman is known for his consistency and ability to anchor the innings.
- Glenn Phillips: A dynamic all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
- Mitchell Santner: The left-arm spinner will be crucial in exploiting the conditions and picking up wickets.
Sri Lanka:
- Avishka Fernando: The opener has been in great form, scoring a century in the first ODI.
- Kusal Mendis: The wicketkeeper-batsman played a crucial role in the first match with his century.
- Mahesh Theekshana: The young spinner has shown great potential and will be key to Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.
Head to Head: Historically, New Zealand has had the upper hand in ODIs against Sri Lanka. Out of 103 matches, New Zealand has won 52, while Sri Lanka has secured 42 victories. This series adds another chapter to their intense rivalry.
Probable Playing XI:
Sri Lanka Squad
- Captain: Charith Asalanka
- Players: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando
New Zealand Squad
- Captain: Mitchell Santner
- Players: Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Adam Milne, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (wicketkeeper), Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Will Young
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report: The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium traditionally supports spinners, and this trend is expected to continue in the second ODI. Batting first will be ideal, as the pitch tends to deteriorate as the game progresses, making it easier for the bowlers.
Probable Scenarios:
- Batting First: If Sri Lanka bats first, they will aim to set a challenging target by capitalizing on their strong batting lineup. Early wickets will be crucial for New Zealand to restrict Sri Lanka to a manageable total.
- Chasing: If New Zealand bats first, their focus will be on building partnerships and setting a high target. Sri Lanka’s bowlers will need to strike early and maintain pressure to keep the scoring rate in check.
Match Predictions: Given the conditions and current form, this match is poised to be a closely contested battle. Sri Lanka’s recent dominance gives them a slight edge, but New Zealand’s determination to level the series cannot be underestimated. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive game of cricket.