New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Match Preview

Introduction

The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka ODI series has been a one-sided affair so far, with the Black Caps dominating the proceedings. As the two teams face off in the third and final ODI on January 11, 2025, at Eden Park, Auckland, Sri Lanka will be looking to salvage some pride and avoid a whitewash.

Team News

New Zealand has been in impressive form, with their top-order batsmen and bowlers performing consistently well. Rachin Ravindra, in particular, has been in top form, scoring 79 runs in the second ODI. The hosts will be looking to continue their winning momentum and complete a 3-0 series sweep.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, has struggled to find their footing in the series. Despite some individual performances, they have failed to click as a team. Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga will be key players for the visitors as they look to end the series on a high note.

Key Battles

The match is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with several key battles on the cards. Some of the key matchups to watch out for include:

• Pathum Nissanka vs Jacob Duffy: Nissanka has struggled to get going in the series, and Duffy will be looking to exploit his weaknesses.
• Rachin Ravindra vs Wanindu Hasaranga: Ravindra has been in top form, and Hasaranga will be looking to dismiss him early to peg back the New Zealand innings.
• Kusal Mendis vs Jacob Duffy: Mendis has had a disappointing series so far, and Duffy will be looking to continue his good form and dismiss the Sri Lankan batsman.

Pitch Report

The Eden Park pitch is expected to be pacey and bouncy, with short boundaries on either side. The team that wins the toss will likely look to bowl first, as the pitch is expected to become more batting-friendly as the match progresses.

Weather Report

The weather in Auckland is expected to be sunny, with no chance of rain. The temperatures will hover around 23°C, making it ideal conditions for a cricket match.

Head-to-Head

New Zealand has a strong head-to-head record against Sri Lanka, having won 54 out of 107 matches. Sri Lanka has won 33 matches, with 9 matches ending in no result and 1 match being tied.

Prediction

Based on current form and home advantage, New Zealand is expected to win the match and complete a 3-0 series sweep. However, Sri Lanka will be looking to put up a strong fight and avoid a whitewash.

Possible Playing 11

New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, William O'Rourke

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando

Key Players to Watch Out For

New Zealand: Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith
Sri Lanka: Wanindu Hasaranga, Asitha Fernando

The stage is set for an exciting encounter between New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Will the Black Caps complete a 3-0 series sweep, or will Sri Lanka manage to salvage some pride? Only time will tell.