Sat Jan 11 09:02:42 UTC 2025: ## Sri Lanka Thrashes New Zealand in Auckland ODI

**Auckland, New Zealand:** Sri Lanka secured a resounding 140-run victory over New Zealand in the third and final ODI at Eden Park on January 11, 2025, claiming a consolation win after losing the series. Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated, restricting New Zealand to a paltry 150 all out in 29.4 overs after they had posted 290-8.

Asitha Fernando and Eshan Malinga led the Sri Lankan attack, each taking three wickets. Fernando’s devastating spell with the new ball saw New Zealand lose their top five batsmen for a combined total of just two runs within the first seven overs, leaving them reeling at 21-5. Mark Chapman’s 81 was the only notable contribution for New Zealand, as no other batsman reached 20. Maheesh Theekshana also chipped in with 3 wickets.

Earlier, Sri Lanka’s batting order displayed significantly improved form compared to the previous matches. Pathum Nissanka top-scored with 66, despite retiring hurt with a hip injury after reaching fifty. He returned later to add further runs. Kusal Mendis (54) and Janith Liyanage (53) also contributed half-centuries. New Zealand’s Matt Henry impressed, taking 4-55, reaching a career milestone of 150 ODI wickets in the process. Captain Mitchell Santner took 2-55. The comprehensive victory was a stark contrast to Sri Lanka’s defeats in the first two matches of the series.

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