Sri Lanka win 3rd ODI by 140 runs

Auckland

Sri Lanka denied New Zealand a clean sweep by winning the third and final ODI by 140 runs at Eden Park on Saturday. Despite the loss, New Zealand clinched the three-match series 2-1.

Sri Lanka set a challenging target of 291 runs, finishing with 290/8 in 50 overs. Pathum Nissanka (66), Kusal Mendis (54), and Janith Liyange (53) were the key contributors with the bat. Matt Henry was the pick of New Zealand’s bowlers, claiming 4 wickets for 55 runs.

In response, New Zealand’s batting faltered as they were bowled out for just 150 runs in 29.4 overs. Mark Chapman top-scored for the Blackcaps with 81 runs off 81 balls, while Nathan Smith (17) and Michael Bracewell (13) were the only other notable contributors. Asitha Fernando (3/26), Maheesh Theekshana (3/35), and Eshan Malinga (3/35) led Sri Lanka’s dominant bowling attack, dismantling New Zealand’s lineup.

Sri Lanka’s victory was largely due to their bowlers’ collective effort. Fernando, Theekshana, and Malinga shared the spoils, each claiming three wickets. Janith Liyange also added one wicket, finishing with figures of 1/16.

The win in the final ODI prevented New Zealand from sweeping the series, with Sri Lanka salvaging some pride ahead of future encounters.

Scoreboard

Sri Lanka: 290/8 in 50 overs (Nissanka 66, Mendis 54, Henry 4/55)
New Zealand: 150 all out in 29.4 overs (Chapman 81, Fernando 3/26)