SL vs NZ 3rd ODI: Pallekele International Stadium Pitch Report

Pallekele International Stadium [Source: @BLACKCAPS/X]

After securing a thrilling three-wicket win in the second One-Day International, Sri Lanka are gearing up to take on New Zealand in the final game of the ongoing three-match series. The high-octane face-off will take place at Pallekele International Stadium in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. 

Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka have been outstanding across departments in the ODI series against New Zealand. The hosts displayed remarkable skill in the series opener, swatting aside the Blackcaps by a whopping margin in the rain-marred affair. The second ODI witnessed a riveting contest between both teams, with the Lankan Lions once again emerging victorious in the low-scoring affair. 

So, moving on to the final dead-rubber, Sri Lanka would be keen to register a clean-sweep, while the Kiwis must be desperate to finish the tour on a high note. Ahead of the much-awaited clash, let's see how the surface at Pallekele International Stadium will behave throughout the contest. 

Pallekele International Stadium Stats And Records In ODIs

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Pallekele International Stadium Pitch Report: Is it batting or bowling-friendly?

The surface at Pallekele International Stadium generally doesn't provide seam movement to the fast bowlers unless it rains at the venue prior to the match. If it doesn't rain before the game, expect the top-order batters to enjoy their time in the middle and use the hard new ball in their favour. 

However, as the ball gets older, the spinners will come into play, with the track offering them significant turn throughout the match. Spinners have played a massive role at this venue, scalping almost fifty per cent of the total wickets in the last five matches. So, expect the likes of Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Michael Bracewell and Jeffrey Vandersay to be important players for their respective sides. 

Interestingly, the ball skids and comes slightly better onto the bat during the second half at this venue. Also, given that the last five matches have been won by the chasing teams, the toss-winner might be tempted to bowl first despite the spin-friendly nature of the surface. 

Players To Watch Out For At Pallekele International Stadium

Jeffrey Vandersay

• The leg-spinner enjoyed stellar success with the ball in the second ODI, dismantling New Zealand with a clinical three-wicket haul. Considering the ground's spin-friendly pitch, Vandersay, who has 13 ODI wickets in six matches at this venue, will once again play a crucial role for the hosts. 

Mark Chapman

• The left-handed batter was New Zealand's wrecker-in-chief in the second ODI, scoring a valiant half century. His red-hot recent form makes him a valuable asset for the Blackcaps.

Kusal Mendis

• The experienced Sri Lankan batter was the top-scorer for his side in the penultimate affair, contributing 74* runs to the total. 

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