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In a thrilling encounter at Seddon Park in Hamilton, the stakes were very high New Zealand face Sri Lanka in the second ODI in their three game series. With New Zealand leading 1-0 after a convincing win in the first match, Sri Lanka needed to get a win to keep their hopes alive in the series. The game was set against a backdrop of cloudy skies and the prospect of rain, which added an extra layer of drama to the proceedings.
A rocky start for New Zealand
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bat first, hoping to take advantage of the conditions early. New Zealand’s innings started on shaky ground as they lost Will Young just the fifth. This early failure could derail their momentum, however Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman stepped up to strengthen the innings with a remarkable partnership of 112 runs. Their collaboration was crucial, allowing New Zealand to recover from an uncertain start and build a foundation for a competitive total.
Ravindra showed his talent with the bat, bringing up his half-century with an impressive six that echoed down the ground. As he continues to dominate the bowling attack, he looks ready to reach his hundred, which will greatly strengthen New Zealand’s chances of setting a formidable target.
READ ALSO: Matt Henry, Will Young shine in New Zealand’s emphatic win over Sri Lanka in the 1st ODI
Charith Asalanka took a blinder to end Rachin Ravindra’s innings
However, cricket is always defined by moments of brilliance, and this game is no exception. On the last ball of the 23rd over, Wanindu Hasaranga bowled a tricky delivery that Ravindra tried to cut off-side. The ball flew into the air, seemingly destined for safety. However, in a stunning display of athleticism and timing, the Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka launched himself into the air on the cover and made a stunning catch that left the audience in awe.
This extraordinary dismissal not only brought Ravindra back to the pavilion but also changed the momentum firmly in Sri Lanka’s favour. At that moment, it became clear that Ravindra’s potential threat of 79 runs had been neutralized, and Sri Lanka seized this opportunity to tighten their grip on the match.
Here is the video:
A 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 catch to dismiss a 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 player! ✨👌#SonySportsNetwork #NZvSL #ODI pic.twitter.com/nQJfY3xtz6
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) January 8, 2025
Implications for both teams
As Ravindra walked away with frustration etched on his face, his dismissal marked a turning point in the game. The absence of such a key player allowed Sri Lanka to regain confidence and assert themselves more effectively on the field. Asalanka’s catch was not just about sending off a player; it symbolizes Sri Lanka’s determination to fight back after their previous defeat.
New Zealand’s innings faltered after Ravindra’s exit, leading to a series of quick dismissals that ultimately restricted them to a total that was lower than they had hoped. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will be chasing a target of 256 in 37 overs.
