New Zealand clinches ODI series with win over Sri Lanka

New Zealand continued their dominance in ODI cricket at home, securing a 113-run victory over Sri Lanka on Wednesday night in Hamilton to clinch the series 2-0.

The Black Caps have now won 16 of their last 17 home ODIs, solidifying their reputation as one of the strongest teams in the format on home soil since 2020.

In the rain-affected match, New Zealand batted first and posted a total of 255/9 from 37 overs. Rachin Ravindra’s quickfire 79 off 63 balls and Mark Chapman’s 62 off 52 provided the backbone of the innings.

Despite a late slowdown caused by Maheesh Theekshana’s hat-trick, the hosts managed to set a competitive target.

“We lost wickets at times, but I think we’re still pretty happy with the score on a wicket that offered a little bit,” said Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner.

“It was still very competitive. We knew we had to bowl really well at the start.”

Sri Lanka struggled to mount a meaningful chase, with Kamindu Mendis the lone bright spot, scoring 64 off 66 balls.

The top order, including Pathum Nissanka (1), Avishka Fernando (10), and Kusal Mendis (2), fell cheaply, leaving Kamindu to carry the innings. His dismissal in the 29th over sealed Sri Lanka’s fate, as the tail crumbled to hand New Zealand a comprehensive win.

Sri Lankan batter Charith Asalanka acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, particularly in the powerplay.

“It was a fair pitch. Bad batting in the powerplay cost us the game,” he said.

“Trying to find a way to get things right in ODI.”

Despite their dominant home record, New Zealand remains an underdog for the upcoming 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

Top sportsbooks place the Black Caps at $8 to win the tournament, trailing India (+187), Australia (+350), South Africa (+600), England (+600), and Pakistan (+650).

However, with odds of -277.78 at Bovada, the Kiwis are favourites to win the third and final ODI against Sri Lanka on Saturday, January 11, as they aim to sweep the series.

New Zealand’s victory in Hamilton not only extends their impressive home record but also highlights their strength as a team capable of delivering under pressure, setting the stage for what could be a competitive year in international cricket.

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