November 18, 2024: After a 12-year drought since their last ODI series win against the Blackcaps in 2012, this win feels like a significant milestone for Sri Lankan cricket. It’s not just the victory itself, but the manner in which they managed to get over the line under pressure, demonstrating both skill and composure when it mattered most.
The rain-curtailed match, reduced to 47 overs, added an extra layer of drama, and Sri Lanka found themselves in a tough position at 163/7, chasing 210. That’s when Kusal Mendis and Maheesh Theekshana stepped up to deliver a match-winning partnership. Their 47-run stand for the eighth wicket was crucial, and it’s also noteworthy as the highest such stand for Sri Lanka against New Zealand at home. Mendis, in particular, has been in excellent form, and his ability to anchor the chase in difficult situations highlights his maturity as a player.
The match also showcased Sri Lanka’s spinners, with Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay playing key roles in restricting New Zealand to a total of 209. It was clear that Sri Lanka’s spin attack—led by these two—was the primary factor in gaining the upper hand. New Zealand struggled against the spinners, especially in the middle overs, and the hosts capitalized on that pressure. The performance of Theekshana, in particular, has been a revelation.
On the batting side, despite the challenges against Michael Bracewell’s off-spin, Sri Lanka showed resilience. The fact that they saw off his challenging 10-over spell was crucial in the context of the chase. While there were some nervous moments, they ultimately held their nerve and sealed the series with a game to spare, showcasing a collective team effort.
This series win also extends Sri Lanka’s dominance in home conditions, with six consecutive bilateral series wins at home—a testament to their growing strength and consistency in 50-over cricket. This kind of sustained success at home is vital for Sri Lanka as they continue to rebuild and strengthen their squad.
It’s also a significant mental hurdle overcome, as they had failed to win a series against New Zealand in the previous five meetings over the last 12 years. This victory is likely to boost the morale of the team and the confidence of the players going forward, giving them momentum in future international engagements.
