Sri Lanka defeated New Zealand by three wickets in a rain-affected 2nd ODI on the Pallekele Worldwide Cricket Stadium, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead within the three-match sequence. A gritty efficiency led by Kusal Mendis and essential lower-order contributions helped the hosts overcome New Zealand’s whole of 209 in a match lowered to 47-overs per facet.
Mark Chapman guides New Zealand to a aggressive whole
After being despatched in to bat by Sri Lanka, New Zealand struggled to construct momentum, with wickets falling at common intervals. Opener Will Younger contributed 26, however it was Mark Chapman who stood out with a splendid 76 off 81 balls, together with seven fours and three sixes. He was well-supported by Mitchell Hay, who added a gentle 49 off 62 balls.
Nonetheless, the remainder of the batting lineup didn’t contribute considerably. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, notably Maheesh Theekshana (3/31) and Jeffrey Vandersay (3/46), saved the stress on, guaranteeing New Zealand had been bowled out for 209 in 45.1 overs. Asitha Fernando chipped in with two wickets, whereas Charith Asalanka and Dunith Wellalage claimed one wicket every.
Kusal Mendis anchors a nervy end for Sri Lanka
Chasing 210 beneath overcast circumstances, Sri Lanka’s innings was regular however tense. Pathum Nissanka supplied a defensive begin with 28 off 33 balls, however fast dismissals, together with Avishka Fernando (5) and Kamindu Mendis (0), left the hosts in bother.
Kusal Mendis then took cost, anchoring the innings with a decided 74 off 102 balls, putting six boundaries. Whereas wickets tumbled round him, Kusal displayed distinctive composure, protecting Sri Lanka on observe. Decrease-order contributions from Janith Liyanage (22), Dunith Wellalage (18) and Maheesh Theekshana (27 not out) proved important in sealing the victory in 46 overs.
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Michael Bracewell was New Zealand’s standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for 36 runs in his 10 overs. Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips and Nathan Smith every picked up a wicket, however New Zealand’s incapacity to defend the overall was evident as Sri Lanka managed their chase effectively beneath stress.
Sri Lanka seal the sequence with 3-wicket win over New Zealand
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With this victory, Sri Lanka have secured the three-match sequence, main 2-0. The hosts gained the primary ODI by 45 runs (DLS technique) and can now purpose for a clear sweep within the closing match on Tuesday, November 19, on the identical venue.
New Zealand, then again, will look to salvage some pleasure within the third ODI. Regardless of moments of brilliance, their batting inconsistencies and incapacity to capitalize on alternatives have value them within the sequence up to now.