Sat Jan 11 09:02:43 UTC 2025: ## Sri Lanka Thrash New Zealand in ODI Series Finale

**Auckland, New Zealand:** Sri Lanka salvaged a consolation victory in their ODI series against New Zealand, convincingly defeating the hosts by 140 runs in the third and final match at Eden Park on Saturday. After heavy defeats in the first two games, Sri Lanka’s bowlers delivered a dominant performance, restricting New Zealand to a paltry 150 all out in 29.4 overs in pursuit of 290.

Sri Lanka’s impressive bowling attack was spearheaded by Asitha Fernando (3-26) and Eshan Malinga (3-40), who each claimed three wickets, alongside spinner Maheesh Theekshana (3-35). Fernando’s early burst decimated New Zealand’s top order, leaving them reeling at 21-5 within the first seven overs. Only Mark Chapman offered any resistance for the Kiwis, scoring a fighting 81, before he eventually fell to Theekshana. No other New Zealand batsman managed to reach 20 runs.

Earlier, Sri Lanka had posted a competitive 290-8 thanks to half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka (66), Kusal Mendis (54), and Janith Liyanage (53). Nissanka, who retired hurt after reaching 50, returned to the crease to further bolster the Sri Lankan total. New Zealand’s Matt Henry, the Player of the Series, claimed 4-55, but it proved insufficient to prevent the comprehensive defeat.

Despite the final match loss, New Zealand secured the ODI series 2-1, mirroring their 2-1 win in the preceding T20I series. Asitha Fernando was named Player of the Match for his crucial bowling performance, while Matt Henry received the Player of the Series award.

**What’s Next?**

New Zealand will next travel to Pakistan for a triangular ODI series involving Pakistan and South Africa, starting February 8th. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will face Australia in two Test matches in Galle, starting January 29th, before the Champions Trophy.

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