Sat Jan 11 14:02:44 UTC 2025: **Sri Lanka Thrashes New Zealand in Auckland ODI, but Kiwis Win Series 2-1**
AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Sri Lanka secured a resounding 140-run victory over New Zealand in the third and final One Day International (ODI) in Auckland on Saturday. Despite the impressive win, New Zealand clinched the series 2-1, having won the first two matches.
Sri Lanka, batting first, posted a challenging 290/8 thanks to half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka (66), Kusal Mendis (54), and Janith Liyanage (53). Matt Henry was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, taking 4/55 and reaching the 150-wicket milestone in ODIs. Mitchell Santner also contributed with 2/55.
New Zealand’s chase never gained momentum. They lost early wickets and despite a fighting 81 from Mark Chapman, the rest of the batting order crumbled. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Eshan Malinga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Asith Fernando, who each claimed three wickets. Malinga’s performance is particularly noteworthy, as the 23-year-old, recently purchased by Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2025 auction for ₹1.20 crore, continues to impress. The Sri Lankan victory was ultimately overshadowed by New Zealand’s series win.
First Piper 