Sri Lanka achieved a remarkable milestone yesterday (17), recording a One Day International (ODI) series win against New Zealand after a 12-year gap.
This victory came during the second match of the series, held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bowl first, allowing New Zealand to bat.
Due to rain, the match was reduced to 47 overs per side. New Zealand managed to score 209 runs, getting bowled out in 45.1 overs.
In response, Sri Lanka chased down the target, scoring 210 runs in 46 overs with the loss of seven wickets. Kusal Mendis, who entered at number three, played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 74 runs, anchoring the innings. Maheesh Theekshana also contributed significantly with 27 not out.
With this victory, Sri Lanka secured the series win with one match remaining. The last time Sri Lanka had won an ODI series against New Zealand was in 2012.
This also marks Sri Lanka’s fifth ODI series win this year. The third and final match of the series is scheduled for tomorrow (19).