Foulkes and Wickramasinghe Make Debut as New Zealand Opt to Bat First in Third ODI
The third and final ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka began in Pallekele with New Zealand winning the toss and electing to bat first. While Sri Lanka has already secured the series with victories in the first two matches, this game provides both teams an opportunity to test their bench strength ahead of future tournaments.
Changes in the Playing XI
New Zealand handed a debut to seamer Zakary Foulkes, who had shown promise during the T20 leg of the tour. Adam Milne also made his first appearance on this tour, replacing Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy in the playing XI.
Sri Lanka made significant changes, with five players sitting out. Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, and Asitha Fernando made way for Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz, and debutant seam-bowling allrounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe. Despite being added to the squad, Eshan Malinga and Lahiru Udara did not feature in the playing XI.
Toss and Pitch Conditions
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner chose to bat first, banking on the better batting conditions offered by the fresh pitch with some grass cover. While the pitch promises more runs compared to the previous matches, the dew factor in the evening could challenge the bowlers.
The weather in Pallekele is a concern, with rain expected later in the day. However, the game began under hot and humid conditions, adding to the challenges for the players.
Teams and Lineups
Sri Lanka Playing XI:
- Nishan Madushka
- Avishka Fernando
- Nuwanidu Fernando
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Charith Asalanka (capt.)
- Janith Liyanage
- Chamindu Wickramasinghe
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Mohamed Shiraz
New Zealand Playing XI:
- Tim Robinson
- Will Young
- Henry Nicholls
- Mark Chapman
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Hay (wk)
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner (capt.)
- Zakary Foulkes
- Ish Sodhi
- Adam Milne
With a fresh pitch and both teams experimenting with their squads, the game promises to be an intriguing contest despite the series result already being decided. Fans will keep an eye on debutants Foulkes and Wickramasinghe as they make their mark on the international stage.
Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds in Pallekele!
Reference from:- https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/sri-lanka-vs-new-zealand-2024-25-1456440/sri-lanka-vs-new-zealand-3rd-odi-1456445/match-report