Rain Delays and Impressive Sri Lankan Fielding Define the Match
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and New Zealand in Pallekele witnessed a rain-interrupted game where Sri Lankan spinners and fielders put on a masterclass to restrict New Zealand to a modest 209 in 47 overs. Mark Chapman’s 76 and Mitchell Hay’s 49 were the highlights of New Zealand’s innings, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered on a slow pitch.
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New Zealand’s Struggle with the Bat
The match was reduced to 47-overs-a-side due to rain interruptions, but New Zealand’s innings failed to gather momentum:
- Mark Chapman stood tall with a gritty 76, anchoring the innings amidst wickets falling at regular intervals.
- Mitchell Hay contributed a valuable 49, forming a crucial partnership with Chapman to add some respectability to the total.
- Aside from Chapman and Hay, only Will Young (26) and Glenn Phillips (15) managed to reach double figures.
Extras contributed 12 runs, underscoring New Zealand’s inability to dominate the disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack.
Sri Lankan Bowlers: Spin Dominates the Game
Sri Lanka’s spinners were the standout performers, stifling New Zealand’s scoring rate:
- Maheesh Theekshana claimed 3 for 31, troubling batters with his accuracy and variations.
- Jeffrey Vandersay matched Theekshana with figures of 3 for 51, maintaining pressure during the middle overs.
- Charith Asalanka gave away just 29 runs in his eight overs, proving economical on a spin-friendly track.
- Asitha Fernando, the sole frontline seamer, picked up two crucial wickets, including the dismissals of Chapman and Michael Bracewell.
Fielding Masterclass by Sri Lanka
The Sri Lankan fielders put on a show, complementing the bowlers with athleticism and sharp catching:
- Avishka Fernando took two spectacular diving catches in the deep to dismiss Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman, saving vital runs.
- Avishka’s third stunning grab came while running and sliding to send Michael Bracewell back to the pavilion.
- Pathum Nissanka added to the brilliance with a breathtaking full-length dive from long-off to mid-off, catching Mitchell Santner’s lofted shot.
- Sri Lanka’s infielders smothered the New Zealand batters, forcing 157 dot balls in the innings, a testament to their defensive strategy and focus.
Rain Interruptions and Impact on the Match
Rain played a significant role, halting play twice during the New Zealand innings. Despite the interruptions, Sri Lanka maintained their composure and executed their plans effectively. The shortened format and slow pitch made scoring difficult for New Zealand, further highlighting the importance of Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Key Performances in New Zealand’s Innings
- Top Scorer: Mark Chapman (76 off 102 balls)
- Notable Contributions: Mitchell Hay (49 off 77 balls), Will Young (26 off 35 balls)
- Sri Lankan Bowlers: Maheesh Theekshana (3/31), Jeffrey Vandersay (3/51), Charith Asalanka (0/29 in 8 overs), Asitha Fernando (2/33)
FAQs
Q: What was New Zealand’s total in the second ODI?
A: New Zealand scored 209 all out in 47 overs after rain interruptions reduced the game duration.
Q: Who were the standout performers for Sri Lanka?
A: Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay each picked up three wickets, while Charith Asalanka bowled economically. Avishka Fernando and Pathum Nissanka contributed with stunning catches.
Q: How did Mark Chapman perform?
A: Mark Chapman was New Zealand’s top scorer with a resilient 76, anchoring the innings on a challenging surface.
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