Tue Nov 19 09:34:36 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Clinches ODI Series Win Over New Zealand in Thriller
**Palakelle, Sri Lanka:** Sri Lanka secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over New Zealand in a rain-shortened third ODI at Palakelle, clinching the series 2-0. Kusal Mendis’s unbeaten 74 and Maheesh Theekshana’s all-round performance (3/31 and 27*) proved crucial in chasing down a challenging 210-run target in a 47-over-a-side contest.
New Zealand, put into bat, struggled early, losing two quick wickets in the powerplay. Mark Chapman (76) and Mitch Hay (49) provided some resistance with a 75-run partnership, but Sri Lanka’s spinners, led by Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay (3-46), kept chipping away at the wickets. New Zealand ultimately folded for 209 in 45.1 overs.
Sri Lanka’s chase was far from smooth. They slumped to 132/6, with Michael Bracewell (4-36) causing significant damage. However, a crucial partnership between Mendis and Theekshana steered the hosts home, securing their sixth consecutive ODI win at home – their longest winning streak. The decisive moment came in the 41st over when Theekshana smashed a six, followed by a boundary from Mendis.
The win marks Sri Lanka’s first ODI series victory over New Zealand in 12 years. The two teams will meet again on Tuesday for the final ODI, where Sri Lanka will aim for a clean sweep.
First Piper 