Sri Lanka‘s recent victory over New Zealand in the third ODI showcased their resilience after two defeats in the series. The match, held at Eden Park in Auckland, saw Sri Lanka post a formidable score of 290-8, leading to a crushing win by 140 runs. New Zealand’s batting lineup faltered dramatically, collapsing to 21-5 early in their innings. Despite Mark Chapman‘s valiant effort of 81 runs, they were bowled out for just 150 runs in 29.4 overs. Asitha Fernando and Maheesh Theekshana were instrumental with the ball, each claiming three wickets, while Pathum Nissanka led the batting with a quickfire 66 runs. This victory not only salvaged a win for Sri Lanka in the series but also highlighted their potential as a competitive side in ODIs.
Sri Lanka’s 5 biggest win margins against New Zealand in ODIs
- A historic 189 runs Victory – Auckland, January 6, 2007
In what remains one of Sri Lanka’s largest victories over New Zealand, they triumphed by 189 runs at Eden Park. Batting first, Sri Lanka scored 263 runs, with notable contributions from Kumar Sangakkara and Sri Lanka bowling line up. In response, New Zealand struggled significantly and was bowled out for just 73 runs. Player of the Match was Sanath Jayasuriya, who scored an impressive 70 runs, showcasing his skill and dominance.
- A commanding win by 140 runs – Auckland, January 11, 2025
Fast forward to January 2025, Sri Lanka again faced New Zealand at the same venue and secured a 140-run victory. After setting a target of 290-8, they dismantled the Kiwi batting order for just 150 runs. Fernando was named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling figures of 3-26, while Nissanka’s explosive 66 off 42 balls was pivotal in building the innings.
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- A solid win by 112 runs – Wankhede Stadium, March 18, 2011
In another significant encounter at Wankhede Stadium, Sri Lanka won by 112 runs. They posted a total of 265 runs, with contributions from Mahela Jaywerdene and Nuwan Kulasekara. New Zealand could only manage 153 runs in response, with Sangakara taking home the Player of the Match award for his remarkable 111 runs innings.
- A decisive victory by 106 Runs – Sharjah, April 10, 2001
Sri Lanka secured a convincing win by 106 runs against New Zealand in Sharjah. Batting first, they scored 269 runs, thanks to solid performances from Jayasuriya and Muttiah Muralitharan. In reply, New Zealand were restricted to just 163 runs, with Jaywerdene being named Player of the Match for his exceptional batting display of 116 runs.
- Another win by 106 Runs – Colombo (SSC), July 31, 2001
Later that year, Sri Lanka achieved another victory margin of 106 runs at SSC Colombo. They set a target of 222 runs, which proved too challenging for New Zealand as they folded for just 116 runs. The standout performer was Chaminda Vaas, who took home the Player of the Match award with his brilliant bowling figures of 3/20.
These matches not only reflect Sri Lanka’s cricketing prowess but also their ability to perform under pressure against formidable opponents like New Zealand. Each victory is a testament to their strong batting line-up and exceptional bowling attack that has consistently delivered outstanding performances over the years.
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