New Delhi: The preparations for the Champions Trophy are kicked off by the Blackcaps as they crushed Sri Lanka in the first ODI match. It was a one-sided affair as New Zealand won the toss and elected to field first. Matt Henry bowled a magical first spell and sent four Lankan batters into the pavilion.
Henry drew the first blood by dismissing Pathum Nissanka, who is in exceptional form in the T20I series. Nissanka dismissed on just nine runs and then Henry removed the top order of Sri Lanka in quick succession by dismissing Kusal Mendis (2 off 8), Kamindu Mendis (3 off 9), and skipper Charith Asalanka (0 off 5).
Avishka Fernando was standing tall from the other end and gave a handy partnership with Janith Liyanage. Kiwi’s skipper Mitchel Santner broke the partnership by dismissing Liyanage on 36 runs. Avishka made his ninth half-century in his ODI career.
Wanindu Hasaranga provided support in the end but New Zealand restricted Sri Lanka to just 178 runs in 43.4 overs.
In response, New Zealand openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra started the innings aggressively and posted 70 runs in the first powerplay without losing a wicket. Ravindra missed his half-century as he got out on 45 runs in 36 balls.
The opening duo of Kiwis added 93 runs and took the game away from Sri Lanka. Young made an unbeaten half-century as he scored 90 runs in 86 balls and Mark Chapman also made not out 29 runs and chased down the target easily in just 27 overs.
Henry was awarded player of the match for his lethal spell at the start and dismantled Sri Lanka’s top order.
Fixture of next two ODIs between New Zealand and Sri Lanka
After a thumping victory for the hosts against Sri Lanka in the first ODI, both teams will travel to Seddon Park, Hamilton for the second ODI on January 8, Wednesday. For the third ODI match, Eden Park in Auckland will host the final match of the series on January 11, Saturday.
New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by nine wickets in the first ODI match at the Basin Reserve, Wellington on January 5, Sunday. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
