The third and final ODI between Sri Lanka and New Zealand is set to take place on November 19, 2024, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. The match is scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM IST.
Teams Overview
Sri Lanka has been in excellent form, winning the first two matches of the series and leading 2-0. Under the leadership of Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka has displayed a balanced performance with both bat and ball. Key players like Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, and Maheesh Theekshana have been instrumental in their success.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has struggled in the series. Missing several senior players like Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Tim Southee, the Kiwis have found it challenging to compete. Mitchell Santner has been leading the side, and players like Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman have shown glimpses of their potential.
Key Players
- Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Mahesh Theekshana, Charith Asalanka
- New Zealand: Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips
Head-to-Head
In the 104 ODI matches played between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, New Zealand won 52 games, while Sri Lanka won 43 games. There has been one tie and eight no-results. The most recent fixture was on November 16, 2024, when Sri Lanka emerged victorious.
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka:
- Pathum Nissanka
- Avishka Fernando
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Kamindu Mendis
- Charith Asalanka (c)
- Janith Liyanage
- Dunith Wellalage
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Mahesh Theekshana
- Asitha Fernando
New Zealand:
- Will Young
- Tim Robinson
- Henry Nicholls
- Mark Chapman
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitch Hay (wk)
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Nathan Smith
- Ish Sodhi
- Jacob Duffy
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. The surface is expected to be slow and low, favouring the spinners and making it challenging for the batters. A low-scoring encounter is anticipated, with anything over 250 runs likely to be decisive.
Probable Scenarios
- Sri Lanka Dominates: Given their current form and home advantage, Sri Lanka is likely to dominate the match. If they manage to restrict New Zealand to a low score, they will be in a strong position to win the series 3-0.
- New Zealand Bounces Back: New Zealand will be eager to avoid a whitewash and salvage some pride. If they can put up a competitive total and their bowlers perform well, they can restrict Sri Lanka and level the series.
Match Predictions
Considering Sri Lanka’s recent performances and New Zealand’s struggles, Sri Lanka is the favourite to win the match. A score of around 250-260 could be challenging for New Zealand to chase, and Sri Lanka’s spinners are likely to play a crucial role in the outcome.
