Kusal Mendis Inspires Sri Lanka To Historic ODI Series Win Against New Zealand

Sri Lanka secured a significant ODI series win against New Zealand, thanks to Kusal Mendis' unbeaten 74. The match, reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain, saw Sri Lanka achieve victory with three wickets in hand and six balls remaining. This win gave them an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

New Zealand's innings faced interruptions from the weather, which allowed Sri Lanka's spinners to capitalise on the slowed momentum. Despite a steady start by Will Young, who scored 26, the team struggled to maintain their pace.

Mark Chapman and Mitchell Hay provided some hope for New Zealand with scores of 76 and 49 respectively. However, Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay each took three wickets, restricting New Zealand to a total of 209 runs. Glenn Phillips was the only other player to reach double figures with 15 runs.

After Avishka Fernando's early dismissal, Mendis became the backbone of Sri Lanka's innings. His performance proved crucial in steering the team towards victory.

Michael Bracewell tried his best for New Zealand by taking four wickets for 36 runs. However, an eighth-wicket partnership between Mendis and Theekshana added 47 runs off 59 balls, ensuring Sri Lanka's triumph.

Data Debrief: Running it back

This series win marks Sri Lanka's first ODI series victory over New Zealand since 2012. It is also their first consecutive ODI wins against the Black Caps since November of that year.

The victory at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium was particularly satisfying for Sri Lanka. They had previously lost their last match in this format at this venue against West Indies in October.