New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I: Live Streaming, Squads, and Match Preview
New Zealand will aim for a series clean sweep as they take on Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I of the bilateral series on Thursday, January 2, at the Saxton Oval in Nelson. After dominating the first two matches, the Kiwis are brimming with confidence and will look to continue their stellar form, while Sri Lanka will seek redemption to avoid a whitewash.
Series Recap
In the opening match at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand successfully defended a total of 173, with Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry delivering standout performances. Duffy’s precision bowling helped secure an 8-run victory.
The second T20I witnessed a similar story as New Zealand posted a competitive total of 186, bolstered by key contributions from Mitchell Hay, Tim Robinson, and Mark Chapman. Jacob Duffy shone again with four wickets for just 15 runs, while Sri Lanka faltered at 141 runs, succumbing to a 45-run defeat. Despite Kusal Perera’s valiant knock of 48 runs off 35 balls, Sri Lanka couldn’t turn the tide in their favor.
3rd T20I: Key Highlights
Match Venue and Time: The match will be played at the picturesque Saxton Oval in Nelson, starting at 5:45 AM IST.
Broadcast Details: Indian fans can catch the live telecast on Sony Sports Network and live stream the match on the SonyLIV app and website.
New Zealand’s Focus
Under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, New Zealand has shown remarkable composure and execution. The team’s depth in both batting and bowling has been evident, with players like Jacob Duffy, Mark Chapman, and Matt Henry consistently delivering match-winning performances. The Kiwis will look to extend their dominance and close out the series with another win.
Sri Lanka’s Challenge
Sri Lanka has struggled to find rhythm, both with the bat and ball. While their top-order batters, including Kusal Perera, have shown glimpses of brilliance, the team has lacked collective effort. Skipper Charith Asalanka will hope for an improved performance to salvage some pride in the series finale.
Squads
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (C), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith.
Key Players to Watch
New Zealand: Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Mark Chapman
Sri Lanka: Kusal Perera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Charith Asalanka
What’s at Stake?
While New Zealand will aim to assert their dominance and finish the series on a high note, Sri Lanka has everything to play for in an attempt to regain lost momentum. For fans, the contest promises an exciting conclusion to the series.