The first T20I of the three-match series between the hosts Sri Lanka (SL) and New Zealand (NZ) is scheduled to be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, in Dambulla, on November 9, 2024.
Notably, the Island nation is coming back to action after they got the better of the West Indies in the white-ball series, which took place in October. the Lankan Lions managed to win the series by a 2-1 margin. Moving ahead, in the follow-up to the upcoming series, Sri Lanka have in fact retained the same squad for the T20Is.
Coming to New Zealand, they have been out of 20-over action ever since the conclusion of a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign for them. They come in with a largely inexperienced squad into the series.
Click Here: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, 1st T20I – Live Cricket Score
Match Details
| Match | Venue | Date & Time | Live Broadcast & Streaming Details |
| Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, 1st T20I | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla | November 9, Saturday, 7 pm IST | Sony LIV, FanCode (app and website) |
Pitch Report
The track at Dambulla, generally favours the spinners, due to its dry surface and low bounce. Hence, for the batters scoring might prove to be a touch challenging. The ball tends to grip and turn as the game progresses. Conditions under lights can bring some swing. Hence the home skipper will be tempted to have a target in sight for a calculative run chase, after winning the crucial toss.
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches Played | Won by Sri Lanka | Won by New Zealand | No Result | First-ever Fixture | Most-recent Fixture |
| 23 | 09 | 13 | 01 | January 17, 2007 | April 8, 2023 |
Predicted Playing XIs
Sri Lanka:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara.
New Zealand:
Tim Robinson, Will Young, Mitchell Hay, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips (wk), Dean Foxcroft, Mitchell Santner (c), Zakary Foulkes, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy.
Probable Top Performers
Probable Best Batter: Kusal Mendis
The recently concluded T20I series between Sri Lanka and West Indies saw the talented wicketkeeper-batter, Kusal Mendis, emerging as the top-scorer with 113 runs in three innings. He would be keen on carrying forward the momentum in yet another 20-over series.
Probable Best Bowler: Dunith Wellalage
The left-arm orthodox spinner Dunith Wellalage had a couple of splendid outings in the white-ball series against West Indies. With the unique angle he creates, he will be keen on putting on a good show against the Blackcaps.
Today’s Match Prediction: Sri Lanka to win the match
Scenario 1
Sri Lanka win the toss and opt to bowl first
Powerplay: 40-50
New Zealand: 145-165
Sri Lanka win the match
Scenario 2
New Zealand win the toss and opt to bowl first
Powerplay: 45-55
Sri Lanka: 180-200
Sri Lanka win the match
Read More: SL vs NZ, 1st T20I – Fantasy11 Prediction
Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.