Kusal Mendis And Avishka Fernando's Centuries Propel Sri Lanka To Victory Over New Zealand

Sri Lanka secured a 45-run win over New Zealand using the DLS Method in their first ODI match on Wednesday. Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando were instrumental in this victory. The game, held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, marked the end of Sri Lanka's eight-match losing streak at this venue.

Despite a rainy day, Sri Lanka delivered a commanding performance. After choosing to bat, they faced an early setback when Pathum Nissanka was caught by Nathan Smith off Jacob Duffy's bowling in the second over, scoring only 12 runs.

Kusal Mendis then joined Avishka Fernando at the crease, and together they took control of the match. Their partnership added 206 runs to Sri Lanka's total. This significant contribution formed the core of Sri Lanka's score of 324-5. Sadeera Samarawickrama scored five, Charith Asalanka added 40, and Janith Liyanage remained unbeaten with 12 runs.

New Zealand began their chase strongly with Will Young and Tim Robinson both scoring 35 runs. However, Robinson was stumped by Mendisb Theekshana in the 13th over, sparking a collapse for the visitors.

Following Robinson's dismissal, New Zealand lost wickets rapidly. Young, Henry Nicholls (six), Mark Chapman (two), and Glenn Phillips (nine) were all dismissed quickly, leaving them struggling at 110-5 after 17 overs.

Michael Bracewell attempted to stabilise New Zealand's innings with a quick 34 from 32 balls. However, it wasn't enough as they fell short of their target by 45 runs.

Sri Lanka's Recent ODI Success

Sri Lanka has been successful in recent bilateral men's ODI series, winning five out of their last six series. This includes victories in their last two series before this match in Dambulla.

Their win against New Zealand was also notable as it was their first ODI victory at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium since defeating Pakistan by seven wickets in August 2014.

Kusal Mendis played a crucial role with his impressive knock of 143 from 128 balls. This was his fourth ODI century and his first on home soil since 2020.