Sri Lanka Wins 1st ODI Vs New Zealand

Brembo

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 14, 2024

37 visitor like this post

Share

Sri Lanka Clinch Thrilling Victory in First ODI Against New Zealand

Christchurch, New Zealand - Sri Lanka got their tour of New Zealand off to a winning start, claiming a thrilling three-wicket victory in the first One-Day International (ODI) at Hagley Oval on Tuesday.

The hosts, batting first, posted a respectable 241 for seven thanks to a fighting half-century from Glenn Phillips (76) and a crucial knock from Devon Conway (65). The Sri Lankan bowlers were disciplined throughout the innings, with Wanindu Hasaranga claiming the wickets of both Phillips and Conway to finish with figures of 3/44.

Chasing 242 for victory, Sri Lanka were dealt an early blow with the loss of opener Pathum Nissanka for just 10 runs. However, a crucial partnership between Kusal Mendis (75) and Charith Asalanka (68) steadied the innings.

The duo added 131 runs for the third wicket, keeping Sri Lanka in the hunt. However, the middle order faltered, and with 43 runs needed off the final five overs, the visitors were in trouble.

But Dhananjaya de Silva (41) came to the rescue, smashing a couple of crucial boundaries to keep the chase alive. With 11 runs needed off the last over, de Silva hit a six off the second delivery, bringing Sri Lanka within touching distance of victory.

Despite losing a wicket in the penultimate delivery, Sri Lanka held their nerve and sealed the win in the final over to clinch a thrilling victory.

Key Takeaways:

• Sri Lanka's bowling attack was impressive, particularly Hasaranga, who picked up crucial wickets.
• Mendis and Asalanka laid the foundation for the chase with their vital partnership.
• De Silva's crucial knock in the final overs proved to be the difference between victory and defeat.

This victory will give Sri Lanka a significant boost in confidence as they look to continue their winning momentum in the remaining two ODIs.

The second ODI will be played at the same venue on Friday, 27th January.