Sat Jan 11 07:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Kiwi’s Stunning Catch Seals Dominant ODI Victory Over Sri Lanka

**Hamilton, New Zealand –** Nathan Smith’s breathtaking diving catch at the boundary propelled New Zealand to a resounding 113-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second ODI at Seddon Park, Hamilton. The win gives New Zealand an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Smith’s spectacular catch, a full-length dive to dismiss Eshan Malinga on the final ball of the 29th over, was the highlight of a dominant New Zealand performance. Sri Lanka, chasing a revised target of 256 under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, were already struggling at 136/8 when Smith’s athleticism sealed their fate.

While Kamindu Mendis fought valiantly with a 64-run knock, the Sri Lankan batting order crumbled under pressure from the Kiwi bowlers, led by William O’Rourke. Smith himself contributed with the ball, dismissing Janith Liyanage for 22.

Earlier, New Zealand had posted a competitive 255/7, fueled by a 112-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman, both of whom scored half-centuries. Although the middle order faltered after Chapman’s dismissal, the total proved insurmountable for Sri Lanka.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s performance, highlighting the challenging conditions that favored their seamers. “The bounce our bowlers got has proven to be challenging,” Santner said. “Good game time for the guys.”

Sri Lanka now face a daunting task heading into the final ODI, needing a significant turnaround to avoid a series whitewash.

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