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Sri Lanka opt to play New Zealand first in Hamilton


Tags: Tour Sri Lanka for New Zealand 2024-25,
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, 2nd ODI at Hamilton, January 8, 2025,
new zealand,
Sri Lanka,
Thomas William Maxwell Latham

Published on: January 08, 2025

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Under cloudy skies in Hamilton, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first in the second ODI against New Zealand. The game, initially delayed two and a half hours by rain, was shortened to a 37-over game. Tweaks to the game include an eight-plus-length first powerplay and a maximum of eight overs allowed per bowler.

Key changes in playing XI

Both teams made strategic adjustments to their lineups. New Zealand welcomed back Tom Lathamwho had missed the first ODI due to a side strain. Latham replaces batsman-keeper Mitch Hay in the playing eleven. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, opted for a spin-heavy approach, bringing in Maheesh Theekshana to replace fast bowler Lahiru Kumara, who struggled in the first match, going wicketless and conceding eight runs in an over.

Recap of the first ODI

In the series opener, New Zealand’s spinners dismantled Sri Lanka’s top order early on, setting up a dominant nine-wicket win. Chasing a modest target of 179, New Zealand cruised to victory with 142 balls to spare, highlighting their clinical performance with both bat and ball.


Conditions and information about the site

Weather is expected to play a big role in Hamilton. The wet pitch and overcast conditions could provide some help to the fast bowlers with the new ball. However, Seddon Park is known for its high-scoring games, with boundaries that are relatively easy to clear, adding intrigue to the contest.


The revised match format includes a second powerplay that spans from ninth to 30, followed by a third powerplay of seven longer. These adjustments are aimed at maintaining the balance of the shortened game.

Team lineups

New Zealand:

Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (week), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (cap), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke

Sri Lanka:

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (capt), Janith Liyanage, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga

We hate Fernando

Outlook

Sri Lanka will aim to address their batting vulnerabilities exposed in the first ODI and capitalize on the early support for the bowlers. Conversely, New Zealand will be looking to extend their dominance and secure the series. The weather remains a wild card, with possible disruptions throughout the day. Fans can look forward to an exciting contest as both teams adapt to the revised conditions.





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