The three-match T20I series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka began in fabulous fashion; after the Black Caps clinched the ODI series 2-0, the Tom Latham-led side looked for a repeat in the T20I series as well. However, the visitors had a different plan in mind.
The first match was a roller coaster ride for both sides. Batting first, Sri Lanka put in an excellent performance. After losing both openers quite early, Kusal Perera scored 53* off 45 deliveries. His knock was followed by Charith Asalanka’s brilliant innings of 67 runs. At the end of the first innings, the visitors posted 196 runs on the board.
The hosts replied in kind, as Daryl Mitchell’s resilience saw them tie the game, and the match headed to a super over. The Black Caps scored eight runs in the super over, and Sri Lanka chased the target with ease, winning the first T20I. Both sides will now face each other in the second match on Wednesday, April 5 at the University Oval.
NZ vs SL Match Details:
Venue: University Oval, Dunedin
Date & Time: April 5, 06:30 AM IST
Live Streaming: Prime Video
NZ vs SL Pitch Report:
The pitch at the University Oval is a heavily batting-favoured pitch, and the side batting first will look to notch up a high total, which could set the tone for a high-scoring thriller. A score above 170 could be expected to be a good total on the surface.
NZ vs SL Probable Playing XIs
New Zealand (NZ):
Will Young, Mark Chapman, Tim Seifert (wk), Tom Latham (C), Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Ish Sodhi, Henry Shipley, Adam Milne, Matt Henry
Sri Lanka (SL):
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera (wk), Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka
NZ vs SL Probable Best Performers
Probable best batter
Daryl Mitchell: Middle-order batter Daryl Mitchell continues his red-hot form as he scored 66 runs in 44 deliveries in the first match. He will be expected to stand out for New Zealand once again and will be keen on propelling the Black Caps to their first win of the T20I series.
Probable best bowler
Henry Shipley: In the first T20I against Sri Lanka, Shipley failed to make an impact as he only took one wicket and conceded 43 runs in the process. However, he could pick up on his form in the second T20I and come through for New Zealand.
Today’s Match Prediction: New Zealand to win the match
