Despite battling a groin injury, Kusal Mendis delivered a crucial unbeaten 74 runs off 102 balls, guiding Sri Lanka to a three-wicket victory against New Zealand in the rain-affected second ODI at Pallekele on Sunday, securing the three-match series 2-0.
Sri Lanka’s pursuit of 210 runs faced challenges on a spinning track, reaching a precarious 93-5 before Kusal’s determined innings, supported by valuable contributions from Janith Liyanage (22), Dunith Wellalage (18), and Maheesh Theekshana (27 not out), steered them to victory despite Michael Bracewell’s impressive 4-36.
This triumph marked Sri Lanka’s first ODI series win against New Zealand since 2012 and their fifth bilateral series victory in 2024.
After choosing to field, Sri Lanka maintained early control until Will Young’s 26 runs provided stability. Rain interruptions reduced the match to 47 overs per side.
Mark Chapman (76) and Mitchell Hay (49) established a 75-run partnership, but their dismissals sparked a collapse, restricting New Zealand to 209 all out.
Sri Lankan spinners Theekshana (3-31) and Jeffrey Vandersay (3-46) dominated the middle overs, while Asitha Fernando (2-37) claimed the vital wicket of Chapman, who struck seven fours and three sixes before Avishka Fernando’s spectacular catch ended his innings.
Following their DLS method victory in the rain-affected series opener in Dambulla, where Kusal and Avishka scored centuries, Sri Lanka leads 2-0. The final match is scheduled for Tuesday at Pallekele.
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