Sri Lanka’s Spin Attack and Centuries from Mendis & Fernando Secure Win Over New Zealand
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- November 14, 2024
- 10:17 am
- 20
- Sports
Sri Lanka opened their ODI series against New Zealand with a decisive 45-run victory (DLS method). This marks their first ODI win over the Kiwis since 2015. This rain-interrupted game in Dambulla showcased Sri Lanka’s skillful play and sharp tactics. With standout centuries from Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando, Sri Lanka posted a commanding total before the spinners tightened the screws on New Zealand’s chase.
Mendis and Fernando Build a Solid Foundation
Winning the toss and electing to bat, Sri Lanka faced an early setback when opener Pathum Nissanka departed for just 12 runs. However, Mendis and Fernando quickly took control, putting up a formidable 206-run partnership for the second wicket. The duo’s stand was Sri Lanka’s highest second-wicket partnership against New Zealand in ODIs. They broke a 21-year-old record held by legends Sanath Jayasuriya and Hashan Tillakaratne.
Mendis played with impressive authority, driving Sri Lanka’s innings at a brisk pace. His career-best knock of 143 off 128 balls was laden with 17 fours and two sixes, setting the tone for a high-scoring game. Fernando complemented Mendis well, reaching his first ODI century since 2021 and finishing with 100 off 115 balls. The pair effectively neutralized New Zealand’s spinners, who were unable to build sustained pressure and conceded at over six runs per over.
Asalanka Adds a Late Spark
After Fernando’s departure, Charith Asalanka provided the final push with a quickfire 40 off 28 balls. He kept the scoreboard ticking and pushed Sri Lanka’s total to 324-5 before rain forced an early end to their innings. Asalanka's aggressive play left the Kiwis on the back foot as they prepared for a revised target in the second innings. Jacob Duffy emerged as the best bowler for New Zealand with figures of 3-41, but the damage was already done, with Sri Lanka in a strong position heading into the break.
New Zealand’s Chase Gets Off to a Bright Start
When play resumed, the rain-adjusted target set New Zealand to chase down 221 runs in 27 overs. Openers Will Young and Tim Robinson started with confidence, reaching 88 without loss and giving New Zealand a solid foundation. Young, showing glimpses of his form from the recent Test series, looked sharp with 48 off 46 balls, while Robinson chipped in with 35 off 36 balls. At that point, New Zealand seemed well on track to threaten Sri Lanka’s total.
Spin Turns the Game
Sri Lanka’s game-changing moment came with the introduction of spin. Maheesh Theekshana, bowling in the 14th over, dismissed Robinson with a sharp stumping. Four balls later, he bowled Young to turn the momentum decisively in Sri Lanka’s favor.
The Kiwis’ innings then unraveled, with Charith Asalanka and Jeffrey Vandersay joining the fray to exploit New Zealand’s struggles against spin. Asalanka struck twice in quick succession, removing Henry Nicholls and Mark Chapman. New Zealand’s middle order couldn’t stabilize the innings, losing five wickets for just 22 runs within a span of 29 deliveries. When Glenn Phillips was caught off Vandersay’s bowling, the game was effectively out of New Zealand’s reach.
Sri Lanka’s Bowlers Complete the Job
Dilshan Madushanka wrapped up the tail, taking 3-39 as New Zealand finished at 175-9, well short of their target. Despite Michael Bracewell’s valiant 34 off 32 balls, New Zealand’s lower order had neither the power nor the stability to counter Sri Lanka’s spin attack. The hosts' bowlers maintained their accuracy and intensity, leaving no room for New Zealand to recover after the collapse.
Takeaways for Both Sides
Sri Lanka’s all-round performance showed their strengths in both batting and spin bowling. Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando’s centuries were pivotal, establishing a firm lead that allowed Sri Lanka’s bowlers to take calculated risks. The win is a significant boost for Sri Lanka as they look to dominate the series.
For New Zealand, the loss exposed a vulnerability to spin, especially in conditions where their bowlers struggled to contain the run flow. Although Will Young and Tim Robinson showed promise at the top, the lack of depth in the middle order became evident as the innings wore on. Jacob Duffy’s solid bowling performance was a positive. With Adam Milne expected to be fit for the next game, New Zealand may look to strengthen their pace attack.
Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka’s win was a clear example of effective batting partnerships and a well-coordinated spin attack. They turned the tide just when New Zealand looked poised to chase down the target. Mendis and Fernando’s record-breaking stand underscored the importance of partnerships in ODI cricket, while Theekshana and Asalanka’s ability to exploit New Zealand’s weaknesses against spin secured the win. The teams now look ahead to the next game, where New Zealand will aim to bounce back and challenge Sri Lanka’s momentum.
