Kusal, Avishka strike centuries, crush NZ: 1st ODI (Dambulla)

Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando hit centuries against New Zealand as Sri Lanka cruised to a 45-run win under the DLS method in a rain-hit first ODI at Dambulla.

Mendis smashed a career-best 143 off 128 balls and Fernando made 100 off 115 as they posted a 216 run stand for the 2nd wicket. Sri Lanka made an imposing total of 324-5 in 49.2 overs before rain came and reduced New Zealand's target to 221 off 27 overs.

In reply, debutants Will Young and Tim Robinson posted a 88-run opening stand but Sri Lankan spinners restricted the Black Caps' chase to 175-9.

Sri Lanka 324 for 5 in 49.2 overs (Kusal 143, Avishka 100, Asalanka 40, Duffy 3-41) beat New Zealand 175 for 9 in 27 overs (Young 48, Robinson 35, Bracewell 34*, Madushanka 3-39) by 45 runs (DLS method).

Nov 2024.