NZ vs SL, 3rd ODI: Preview, Pitch Report, Probable XIs, Fantasy Tips & Prediction
Sri Lanka needs a win at all costs to keep their CWC qualification hopes alive
New Zealand and Sri Lanka are gearing up to clash horns in the highly anticipated third and final ODI of the gripping three-match series on Friday, March 31. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as the two teams lock horns at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
The Kiwis, leading the series 1-0 after an emphatic victory in the first match and a washed-out second one, are looking to seal the deal with a win in this match. On the other hand, the Sri Lankans hope to make a comeback and keep their hopes of automatic qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 alive.
Team Preview
New Zealand
In the first ODI, New Zealand put on a solid display, setting a competitive target of 274 runs on the back of Finn Allen's fiery half-century. However, the Sri Lankan batters failed to fight and were skittled out for a paltry 76 runs, thanks to Henry Shipley's sensational five-wicket haul. Tom Latham's men will look to win this game and clinch the series.
Sri Lanka
Unfortunately, Sri Lanka's tour was plagued by disappointment as the second match was washed out due to rain, further dampening their chances of direct qualification for the World Cup. With only one game left, the Lankans must give their all and hope for favourable results in other matches to stay in contention for direct CWC'23 qualification.
Match Details
Date & Time: March 31, 06.30 AM IST
Venue: Seddon Park, Hamilton
Live Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
Pitch Report
The Seddon Park wicket is expected to provide some early movement for the bowlers, but as the game progresses, batting is expected to become easier, with some explosive hitting anticipated due to the relatively smaller ground dimensions. Winning the toss might prove crucial, as the skipper who wins it may choose to bowl first to take advantage of the early conditions.
Probable playing XI
New Zealand: Tom Blundell, Chad Bowes, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (c & wk), Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Henry Shipley, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Blair Tickner
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Angelo Mathews, Charitha Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Chamika Karunaratne, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka
Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips
Wicket-Keeper: Tom Latham, Kusal Mendis
Batters: Finn Allen, Glenn Phillips, Angelo Mathews
All-Rounders: Daryl Mitchell, Chamika Karunaratne
Bowlers: Henry Shipley, Matt Henry, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka
Captain: Daryl Mitchell
Vice Captain: Chamika Karunaratne
Prediction
New Zealand are the favourites to win the match and the series based on their form, squad and knowledge of conditions.
 "Jatin")
