The first T20I between New Zealand and Sri Lanka took place on November 9, 2024, at Eden Park in Auckland. The match started at 7:00 PM local time, creating an electric atmosphere under the lights.
Team Overviews
New Zealand: New Zealand came into the series with a strong T20 squad, aiming to maintain their impressive home record. Led by Kane Williamson, the team featured a blend of experienced players and exciting young talent. The Kiwis were keen to showcase their all-round abilities and start the series on a high note.
Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka, led by Dasun Shanaka, was eager to put up a strong fight against the hosts. The team, known for its unpredictable yet brilliant performances, aimed to upset the Kiwis on their home turf. With a mix of seasoned campaigners and promising youngsters, Sri Lanka looked to make a statement.
Key Players
New Zealand:
- Kane Williamson: The captain and a key batsman, Williamson’s experience and calmness at the crease were vital for New Zealand’s success.
- Glenn Phillips: Known for his explosive batting, Phillips was expected to provide quick runs in the middle order.
- Trent Boult: The left-arm pacer, with his ability to swing the ball both ways, was a crucial part of New Zealand’s bowling attack.
Sri Lanka:
- Dasun Shanaka: The captain and an all-rounder, Shanaka’s leadership and contributions with both bat and ball were essential for Sri Lanka.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: A brilliant leg-spinner and handy batsman, Hasaranga was key in providing breakthroughs and controlling the middle overs.
- Pathum Nissanka: The opener, with his consistent performances, was expected to give Sri Lanka a solid start.
Head-to-Head in T20
Before this match, New Zealand and Sri Lanka had faced each other 23 times in T20Is. New Zealand led the head-to-head record with 13 wins, while Sri Lanka had won 9 matches.
Probable Playing XI (Latest Squad and Captains)
New Zealand T20I Squad
- Captain: Mitchell Santner
- Vice-Captain: Glenn Phillips
- Players: Tim Robinson, Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Dean Foxcroft, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes, Nathan Smith, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay (wicketkeeper)
Sri Lanka T20I Squad
- Captain: Charith Asalanka
- Vice-Captain: Wanindu Hasaranga
- Players: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper), Kusal Perera (wicketkeeper), Dinesh Chandimal, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
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
Eden Park in Auckland is known for its short boundaries and high-scoring games. The pitch generally favours batters with good bounce and carry. However, the bowlers could get some assistance with the new ball under lights.
Match Scenarios and Predictions
Given New Zealand’s strong batting lineup and their home advantage, they were favoured to win the match. However, Sri Lanka’s unpredictability and their ability to perform well in T20 cricket meant that an upset was always on the cards.
Match Scenario: New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, aiming to put up a challenging total. Their openers, Finn Allen and Devon Conway provided a brisk start, with Allen’s aggressive approach setting the tone. Kane Williamson and Glenn Phillips anchored the middle overs, while James Neesham’s late fireworks propelled New Zealand to a competitive total of 190/6 in their 20 overs.
In response, Sri Lanka started cautiously, with Pathum Nissanka playing a steady innings. However, frequent wickets and a tight spell from Trent Boult and Mitchell Santner put pressure on the visitors. Despite a late surge from Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka fell short, finishing at 170/8 in their 20 overs.
Match Prediction: New Zealand’s strong performance, particularly in batting and disciplined bowling, made them the favourites to win the series opener. Sri Lanka showed glimpses of brilliance, but consistency was key for them to pose a stronger challenge in the remaining matches.
