ICC 2024-25: Will the Black Caps continue their winning journey?

The New Zealand cricket team has enjoyed a strong run against Sri Lanka in the past two One Day Internationals, emerging victorious in both matchups. With both sets of fans eagerly awaiting the third and final ODI, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the Black Caps will continue their winning streak or if Sri Lanka will stage a decisive comeback. The upcoming One Day International between New Zealand and Sri Lanka promises to deliver more thrilling and dynamic moments. As we look forward to the subsequent encounter, let’s look back on the previous matchups to understand better how the teams might approach their game in the forthcoming clash.

The first ODI match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka was held on January 04, 2025, at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. The Sri Lankan team won that day’s toss and chose the batting. However, the Sri Lankan side faced many distresses and featured many hopeless strikes. It was New Zealand that secured the victory for the day. The New Zealand team won the battle over the Sri Lankans by nine wickets. The Sri Lankan team was disappointed for the day, featuring all out for 179 runs in 49.1 overs. The New Zealand team, meanwhile, was flawless in reaching this target, where the team met the score in 42.2 overs having 179/1. Will Young and Rachin Ravindra made the team move forward quickly. They were in charge of putting together a 100-run partnership for the first wicket. However, despite all the ups and downs, the first ODI ended in favour of the New Zealand team.

The Sri Lanka and New Zealand teams had their second ODI on January 08, 2025, at Seddon Park. This matchup began with Sri Lanka winning the toss, and this time, they chose to field first. Despite their alternative decision, the Sri Lankan team again faced a drastic loss against the Black Caps. The New Zealand team who batted first scored about 255/9 in 37 overs. Again, Rachin made massive moves for the second ODI, where he secured about 79 runs in 63 balls. Followed by Rachin, Mark Chapman scored about 62 runs in 52 balls. The Sri Lankan team, which played in the second half, failed to plot a clear picture and ended the game by scoring 142 in 30.2 overs. Kamindu Mendis and Theeshana were the two-star players for Sri Lanka in their second ODI, where Maheesh Theekshana excelled by taking four wickets for 44 runs. The first and second ODI ended in favour of the New Zealand team, and the third ODI, scheduled for January 11, 2025, has created high curiosity among the crowd. Let’s look at the match details of the third ODI in detail.

Match details for the upcoming ODI

Teams: New Zealand vs. Sri Lanka

Date: January 11, 2025 (Saturday)

Time: 1.00 AM GMT | 6.30 AM (IST)

Venue: Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand.

ICC ODI Team Rankings:

Predictions for the Upcoming Games:

The New Zealand team enters the third ODI with confidence and determination. While the outcome of the game day can swing in any direction, the New Zealand squad is poised to replicate their dominant performances from the first two ODIs. With unwavering focus, the team is ready to showcase their usual strategies and lineup against Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan team steps into this crucial clash with a strong desire to bounce back. They will likely make some changes within their lineup to bolster their chances. Additionally, they need to refine their performances and game tactics to break their losing streak. The Sri Lankan side, however, faces significant pressure as they prepare for this high-stakes battle.

The three T20s held between these two teams last month saw New Zealand claim victory in the first two matchups. However, the third T20 saw a positive result for Sri Lanka, as they won that match. This allows Sri Lanka to even things out in the upcoming third ODI. However, the team must execute strong defensive strategies to overcome their opponents. A solid defensive effort can stop skilful players like Rachin Ravindra from scoring in the next game. Sri Lanka must take decisive action to break their losing streak. On the other hand, the New Zealand team, riding high on confidence, is likely to perform flawlessly in this matchup. In comparison, New Zealand is the more dominant country and will likely secure victory.

List of players for the New Zealand and Sri Lankan squad:

New Zealand Squad: Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Hay, Tom Latham (wk), Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Nathan Smith, Will O’Rourke.

Sri Lanka Squad: Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Nuwanidu Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kusal Mendis, Nishan Madushka (wk), Asitha Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Eshan Malinga, Jefferey Vandersay, Lahiru Kumara, Maheesh Theekshana, Mohamed Shiraz.

Both teams, packed with talent from their respective squads, are eagerly preparing to put forth their best performances in the third ODI matchup. Fans are eagerly anticipating an intense and thrilling contest as these skilled players face off in what promises to be a high-stakes game. Stay updated with the latest ICC 2024-25 ODI schedule, predictions, and all the exciting news of your favourite sports on our website.