Sri Lanka and New Zealand are set to face off in the third and final ODI of the series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday (November 19). With the hosts already sealing the series with a 2-0 lead, this match serves as a dead rubber. However, New Zealand will aim to end the tour on a positive note by winning the last encounter.
Sri Lanka’s commanding performances in the first two ODIs have ensured a series win, showcasing their balanced side and strong form at home. With the final game offering an opportunity to experiment, Sri Lanka might give chances to fringe players while aiming for a clean sweep to boost their morale ahead of upcoming challenges.
Despite their struggles in the ODI series, the Blackcaps will aim to finish their campaign with a win. While their T20I series performance showcased resilience, their ODI outings have highlighted inconsistencies in both batting and bowling. A win in Pallekele would help them salvage some pride and gather momentum for future assignments.
The Pallekele pitch is expected to be a batter-friendly surface, making it easier for players to time their shots. Nevertheless, spinners are likely to dominate in the latter stages of the game as the pitch slows down. Pacers may struggle to extract movement unless rain before the match alters the conditions. Captain winning the toss might look to bat first and put lots of run on the scoreboard
Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushka , Mohamed Shiraz
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Will Young
