SL vs NZ Match Preview

We are now in the third and final game of the ODI series, and Sri Lanka has already won convincingly. The Sri Lankans kept their nerve in the rain-affected second ODI, winning by three wickets. They will go for a clean sweep and capitalize on the momentum. The young New Zealand team has had trouble on this tour, and they want to avoid a run of whitewashes and finish strong in Asia. Sri Lanka has beaten teams in recent home series. They've only lost once in the last seven games, which boosts the team's confidence. In contrast, New Zealand has consistently struggled in Sri Lanka. The batting lineup has little experience in these conditions. It remains to be seen if the team can put up a strong performance in this game and avoid a series whitewash.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 3rd Match, ODI Match

Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Date & Time: 19th November 2024 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Star player dropped as India women announced squad for Australia series

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Jacob Duffy, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Charith Asalanka – Charith Asalanka has contributed with 380 runs in his last ten ODIs and nine wickets in his last nine ODIs.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Will Young – He is a top-order, right-handed batter. In the recently played 5 matches, this player has scored 48, 26, 89, 105 and 33 runs.
• Jacob Duffy – This player is a right-arm fast-medium bowler and in the recently played 3 matches, he has taken 5 wickets at an average of 18.6. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Will Young, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell(C), Dunith Wellalage(VC), Jacob Duffy, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka(C), Avishka Fernando, Will Young, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner(VC), Michael Bracewell, Dunith Wellalage, Jacob Duffy, Maheesh Theekshana

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Michael Bracewell, Charith Asalanka

Vice-captain – Mitchell Santner, Dunith Wellalage

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

New Zealanders endured a poor tour of Sri Lanka, as has the previous generation of cricketers. Their batsmen haven't timed the ball well and must adjust their approach on these slow tracks. The Sri Lankans possess an excellent home record and the ideal bowling attack for the conditions. This makes them favorites. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

In a shocking turn of events, New Zealand pace bowling all-rounder Doug Bracewell confessed to the usage of cocaine and subsequently tested positive for the illicit substance following the conclusion of the NZ Super Smash game between Central Districts and Wellington in January 2024. Playing for Central Districts, Bracewell hogged the limelight with his all-round heroics in that game hammering 30 (11) with the bat and claiming figures of 2-21. 

As a result, the authorities made the decision to impose a three-month ban which was expected to be in effect till April 2024. However, a condition was placed which would truncate his suspension down to one month if he agreed to opt for a rehab program.

How did the higher authorities react to this news? 

As per a statement issued by the Sport Integrity Commission, Bracewell had reportedly consumed the substance whilst he was away from the competition which makes it clear that the Kiwi speedster was not using it as a means to enhance his performance on the field. 

However, Sports Integrity Commission chief executive Rebecca Wells highlighted the grave danger the drug possesses and how it can negatively hinder the performance of athletes across all levels of cricket. 

“It’s not always known what’s in these substances or their strength, which makes them unpredictable and dangerous. Their use is a serious issue at all levels of sport and recreation, and we want to work with both sports organizations and athletes to tackle this problem,"

Moreover, New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink also commented that Bracewell had undergone a one-month penalty and is well aware of the consequences of his action. Nevertheless, he remains committed to fully supporting him and driving him on the road to complete recovery. 

“Doug accepts full responsibility for his error of judgment; the consequences of his behavior, and the penalty imposed. As an organization, we will continue to provide support for Doug – who is fully aware of our expectations moving forward,"

Bracewell’s last appearance for New Zealand

Bracewell last played featured for New Zealand in the ODI format back in 2022 whereas his last test appearance came in a home Test series against Sri Lanka in 2023. Moreover, Bracwell has also been absent from the domestic circuit for a while since the start of the year but after completing a one-month suspension period, Bracwell could soon be cleared to partake in all levels of the game.

See also: Tim Southee all set to retire from Tests after England series

SL vs NZ Match Preview

After rain halted over 23 overs of play in Dambulla on Wednesday, the two sets of players, officials, and fans will be hoping for an entire innings of ODI cricket in Pallekele on Sunday. And, following a drawn T20I series, it would be ideal to see 50 overs each side in this second ODI, which, if won by the tourists, would set up a decider in the third and final ODI. Sri Lanka demonstrated their understanding of local conditions in the first match of the series, with two batters making centuries, and New Zealand will have to learn quickly ahead of this game - easier said than done given that three of their XI on Wednesday were making their ODI debuts.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 2nd Match, ODI Match

Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Date & Time: 17th November 2024 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Will Young, Tim Robinson, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay (wk), Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Charith Asalanka – Charith Asalanka has contributed with 380 runs in his last ten ODIs and nine wickets in his last nine ODIs.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Will Young – He is a top-order, right-handed batter. In the recently played 5 matches, this player has scored 48, 26, 89, 105 and 33 runs.
• Jacob Duffy – This player is a right-arm fast-medium bowler and in the recently played 3 matches, he has taken 5 wickets at an average of 18.6. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka(C), Will Young, Will Young, Michael Bracewell(VC), Mitchell Santner, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Jacob Duffy, Dilshan Madushanka

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis(C), Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Tim Robinson, Will Young, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(VC), Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Jacob Duffy, Dilshan Madushanka

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka

Vice-captain – Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka crossed the line comfortably on Wednesday, but despite their large batting total, they appeared to be under pressure when the New Zealand openers piled on the runs early. We expect the Black Caps to compete again in this match, but Sri Lanka will win due to their superior experience. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

Veteran New Zealand player Tim Southee will retire from Test cricket at his home ground, Seddon Park in Hamilton, against England. New Zealand's leading wicket-taker in international cricket, Southee will play for the country should they qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final next June as well.

"Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up," Southee said. "To play for the BlackCaps for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but the time feels right to now step away from the game that has given so much to me. Test cricket holds a special place in my heart, so to be able to play such a big series against the same opponent my Test career began against all those years ago, and on three grounds that are incredibly special to me, seems the perfect way to end my time in the black cap."

However, Tim Southee made headlines with his 17-wicket campaign at the U19 World Cup in 2008, at an average of just six, to be named the Player of the Tournament. In his 18-year career since, Southee led New Zealand's bowling attack across formats, appearing in four ODI World Cups, seven T20 World Cups, two Champions Trophy tournaments, and a WTC Final where he picked up a fifer at Southampton as well.

New Zealand's second-highest wicket-taker of all time in Tests, Southee has picked up 385 Test wickets in 104 matches so far, and is the only player in the world to claim more than 300 Test scalps, 200 in ODIs and 100 in T20Is as well. Moreover, Southee played an important all-round role in New Zealand's historic 3-0 whitewash of India in India - a feat that happened for the first time by a visiting team since the 2012-13 season.

"Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the BlackCaps" - Scott Weenink

Meanwhile, NZC chief executive Scott Weenink referred to Southee as one of New Zealand's greatest, crediting him for the team's Test success over the past few years.

SEE ALSO: 'Gautam Gambhir is already frightened' - Ricky Ponting takes a fresh jibe ahead of BGT

"Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the BlackCaps and he'll be remembered as a giant of the modern New Zealand game," he said. "From the moment he exploded on to the Test scene against England in Napier eighteen summers ago, he's given his heart and soul to playing for New Zealand and has helped the team achieve some unthinkable results."

"There's already unprecedented interest in this England Test tour and I'm sure the chance to farewell one of our all-time greats will only further drive the anticipation and hype for this series. Tim has an incredible bank of experience and knowledge of the game and while he may have called time on his playing career, I'd be surprised if we don't see him in another capacity at some stage in the future."

"Tim's durability and resilience has been outstanding" - Gary Stead

The team's head coach Gary Stead also applauded Tim Southee for his contributions to New Zealand as well.

"Tim's durability and resilience has been outstanding," Stead said. "He's an incredibly tough competitor who gets himself up for big occasions and is rarely injured. Tim cares deeply about the team, its reputation and performances, and he will be missed within the BlackCaps environment. He now deserves some time with his family and I'm sure he will reflect very positively in years to come about his impact and achievements in the game."

SL vs NZ Match Preview

We're in the first of three ODIs between Sri Lanka and New Zealand. The two teams split the T20 series, with New Zealand mounting a strong comeback in their second game before losing the first. The Kiwis have had a successful tour of the subcontinent and will look to build on that momentum as the Sri Lankans attempt to hold the fort. 

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 1st Match, ODI Match

Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla

Date & Time: 13th November 2024 at 02:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Jacob Duffy, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Pathum Nissanka – Pathum Nissanka has been one of Sri Lanka's top-performing ODI batters in 2024, amassing 654 runs in 10 matches at an impressive average of 72.7.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Will Young – Will Young recently played very well in India. This will be his first ODI match in Sri Lanka. He is good at playing spin bowlers, as he showed in Bangladesh.
• Lockie Ferguson – Ferguson took a hat-trick in the second T20I to help the tourists defend 108. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Glenn Phillips(VC), Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga(C), Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka(VC), Glenn Phillips, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner(C), Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

New Zealand is struggling in Sri Lanka. The conditions are unsuitable for them, and their batsmen were struggling on these turning tracks. They have no key players and must get the most out of their top and middle lineup. The Sri Lankans have been very consistent at home in the last 12 months, and they have a strong spin attack. We anticipate a close game, but the hosts hold the advantage. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

SL vs NZ Match Preview

This game will be a fascinating battle between the Black Caps' batting depth and the spin abilities of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. With two new captains in charge, both will have the opportunity to put their leadership skills to the test in a game that must be won. A T20I series draw or win is on the line. Both teams are looking to restart after heartbreaking T20 World Cup campaigns. Each appears to be assembling their new-look teams with a few tweaks, but have kept a core group of successful T20 players.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 2nd Match, T20I Match

Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla

Date & Time: 10th November 2024 at 07:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Tim Robinson, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Josh Clarkson, Mitchell Santner (C), Nathan Smith, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka (C), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dinesh Chandimal (WK), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Dinesh Chandimal – Dinesh Chandimal's wicketkeeping provides solidity behind the stumps, but equally, he will be a calm presence for Sri Lanka with the bat.
• Asitha Fernando – Asitha Fernando will add a seam-bowling threat when he has new ball in hand.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Tim Robinson – Tim Robinson may be given a chance to open the batting in a bid to gain more T20 experience internationally.
• Mitchell Santner – Mitchell Santner will be tested to the fullest in a game which will be series defining. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Glenn Phillips(VC), Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga(C), Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka(VC), Glenn Phillips, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner(C), Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Lockie Ferguson

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka has two of the world's best limited-overs spinners, Hasaranga and Theekshana. They will face a daunting task when they use the middle overs against a long and powerful New Zealand batting lineup. Mark Chapman and Glenn Phillips will return to familiar surroundings after stints at the Dambulla Sixers and Colombo Strikers before this year. There will be two important batters to watch. New Zealand will strive for a team performance, which has traditionally been their strength. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.

After securing three consecutive limited-overs series wins, Charith Asalanka-led Sri Lankan side is brewing up with a lot of confidence. The battle-hardened outfit has slowly become a force to reckon with in recent times. The skipper Asalanka now has some serious ambitions for his side and expects them to be as good as they were prior to 2014. 

The cricket-driven island nation was in the midst of its golden run between 2007-2014. During this period, Sri Lanka was often considered a tough opposition, especially in major ICC events where they managed to make no fewer than five World Cup final appearances (three T20Is and two ODIs) before going on to win their maiden T20 World Cup title in 2014. 

But the wheels had fallen off following the retirement of legends like Jayawardene and Sangakkara in 2014-15 and as a result, the team slipped into a hole and started witnessing a downward trajectory, especially in the white-ball format. However, with some sensational series wins against India, New Zealand, and West Indies, Asalanka hopes to revive the legacy of the vintage Lankan squad and replicate some of the old magic that the team possessed back in the day.

What does Asalanka aspire to do for Sri Lankan cricket?

As a first step, the Lankan skipper aims to propel his side up in the ICC Rankings and cement their place in the top three. In T20I cricket, his side is dismally ranked at number eight while in ODI, the Lankan side is up at the sixth position but still faces an inevitable exclusion from the upcoming Champions Trophy. Being the skipper of the Lankan side in the ODI and T20I formats, Sri Lanka have to compete fiercely on all fronts and continuously strive for positive progress. 

"Our goal is to climb to the top three in the rankings. If we've consistently been winning, when we go to the ICC tournaments, we won't get exposed. We'd have played good teams and won, like we used to do in 2014 and before, when we used to get to the semi-finals easily. We are hoping to come back to that level. It's important to play really well from tour to tour."

Their upcoming challenge against the Black Caps

It is worth mentioning that Sri Lanka's unprecedented resurgence in international cricket has largely been at home, most notably on turning wickets. This outfit is yet to be tested in alien conditions outside the Indian subcontinent. To build upon their dominating run, the Sri Lankan team will need to win matches consistently in away conditions.

But on the back of some emphatic series wins at home in recent times, one can safely conclude that the Asalanka-led Sri Lanka side have taken a step in the right direction.  They will now be up against the Black Caps for a five-match white-ball series who are coming off on the back of a historic 3-0 Test series sweep against India in their own backyard. 

See also: BCCI mulling to take strict action against Gautam Gambhir following an annihilating series whitewash

SL vs NZ Match Preview

Sri Lanka will look to keep their winning streak going when they face New Zealand in the first T20I of the series on Saturday at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla. Sri Lanka has performed admirably in all formats under new coach Sanath Jayasuriya. Captain Charith Asalanka is hoping that his team can deliver a clinical performance with both bat and ball in this match. New Zealand, on the other hand, will make their return to the T20 format after nearly five months away. Interim captain of the team Mitchell Santner will be hoping the team can adjust to the conditions and put on a good show against the Islanders.

SL vs NZ Match Details

Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – 1st Match, T20I Match

Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla

Date & Time: 09th November 2024 at 07:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SL vs NZ Venue Stats

SL vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

SL vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

SL vs NZ Last Five Matches

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: UP Warriorz trade out Danni Wyatt-Hodge to.......

SL vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (captain), Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Mitchell Hay, Mark Chapman, Dean Foxcroft, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi, Zak Foulkes

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, Mahesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dunith Wellalage

Topmost Picks for SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Kusal Mendis – Kusal Mendis will be one of their reliable batters who can adjust to the needs of the game.
• Nuwan Thushara – Nuwan Thushara will be most effective with the new ball and Pathirana is more of a death-overs specialist.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Mark Chapman – Mark Chapman impressed with a man-of-the-match performance, notching up his first hundred against India in the second innings and seeing off the chase in the fourth match.
• Mitchell Santner – He would have learned a lot about captaincy after playing under MS Dhoni’s leadership in the Indian Premier League. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka(VC), Pathum Nissanka, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay, Mitchell Santner(C), Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lockie Ferguson, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SL vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Glenn Phillips(VC), Mitchell Hay, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Wanindu Hasaranga(C), Lockie Ferguson, Mahesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SL vs NZ Probable Winners:

Based on their current form, hosts Sri Lanka will be favorites to defeat New Zealand. With Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga in excellent form this year, the team management will be hoping for a strong performance in this home fixture. Considering the team combination, New Zealand is expected to win this match.

The ICC has released the latest Future Tours Programme (FTP) for women's cricket for the 2025-29 cycle, bringing several key updates aimed at enhancing the global profile of the sport. Among the highlights are dedicated windows for three major T20 leagues: the Women's Premier League (WPL) in January-February, The Hundred in August, and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) in November. This strategic scheduling ensures uninterrupted participation of international stars, thereby heightening the competition’s appeal and fan engagement across the globe.

ICC unveils new women's FTP with separate windows for WPL, Hundred, and WBBL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also shifted the WPL window to January-February from 2026. This adjustment aligns with Cricket Australia's (CA) decision to reschedule its marquee international home fixtures, previously held in mid-January, to a February-March window. The 2025 Women’s Ashes, set to begin in January, will be Australia’s last home series during this time slot until at least 2029. Following the WPL in 2026, Australia is set to host India for a highly anticipated tour, featuring one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is.

See Also: KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel head to Australia early for crucial preparation ahead of Test

ICC Women's Championship expanded and new T20 Champions Trophy announced

In a bid to expand the reach of women's cricket, the ICC Women's Championship will now include 11 teams, with Zimbabwe joining as the latest addition. This expansion follows the recent inclusion of Bangladesh and Ireland, underscoring the ICC’s commitment to growing the women’s game. With Zimbabwe’s addition, every Full Member of the ICC, except Afghanistan, will now field a team in the ODI Championship. The current cycle will culminate in the 2025 ODI World Cup in India, promising a highly competitive format with new entrants.

The ICC also introduced a T20 Champions Trophy, set to be hosted by Sri Lanka in 2027. This event is part of ICC’s strategy to have at least one global women’s tournament every year, with the Champions Trophy joining an already busy schedule of major events. In 2028, fans can look forward to the inclusion of cricket in the Los Angeles Olympics (August) and the T20 World Cup (September), which will take place within a 14-month period, offering fans an action-packed calendar of top-level women’s cricket.

An absolute horror show ensued at the Wakhede Stadium on Sunday as New Zealand did the unthinkable by thrashing India 3-0 at home. Coming fresh from a brutal 0-2 hammering against an above-average Lankan side, very few optimistic cricket fans expected New Zealand to even win a Test match let alone achieve a monumental clean sweep. 

But Latham and his men have conquered the Indian fortress and by doing so have proven to the world that India are not really invincible at home. The spin combo of Ajaz and Phillips wrapped up the proceedings on day three as the duo’s combined figures of 9-99 to drive New Zealand to a historic 3-0 whitewash. Ajaz in particular, had a devastating impact on the Indian batters and picked up 11 wickets in the match to dismantle India left, right, and center in both innings. 

A look at some of the long list of unwanted records for India

If you're an Indian fan then you would surely want to look away from the list of unwanted records that India have managed to register in this forgettable three-match Test series. 

• This is the first time India has been whitewashed in a three or more Test series at home.
• It is also their first-ever Test series whitewash since the year 2000. The last time a whitewash occurred was in a two-match Test series against South Africa
• New Zealand became the first-ever team to whitewash India 3-0 on Indian soil.
• This is India's first-ever Test series defeat at home since 2012. Prior to New Zealand, England were the last team who managed to achieve this remarkable feat.
• New Zealand managed to secure their first test win against India at home since the year 1988. 
• India's paltry 46-10 at Bengaluru is the lowest score ever scored by team India in a home Test.  

The shocking Test series defeat has further aggravated India's aspirations of securing a WTC Final spot. Following the 0-3 whitewash, India now has lost its spot at the top of the tree and slipped to the second position in the points table thus paving the way for Australia at the top who have an impressive PCT of 62.5. New Zealand too have made some rapid gains and have surged to the fourth position in the points table. The 2021 WTC Champions are very much in contention for a berth in the ongoing WTC Final. India face the arduous task of winning four out of five matches in the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy, which by no means will be a walk in the park for the wounded Indian side.