Sri Lanka versus New Zealand ODI Series, 2024

2nd ODI

Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay have restricted the New Zealand team to 209 runs

New Zealand scored 209 in 45.1 overs vs Sri Lanka.

Mark Chapman’s 76 Guides New Zealand to 209 as Spinners Dominate in Rain-Reduced ODI

Mark Chapman’s 76 helped New Zealand reach 209 as they were bowled out in 45.1 overs in a rain-affected second ODI in Pallekele, which was shortened to a 47-over-a-side contest.

The spinners were introduced early, with Dunith Wellalage sharing the new ball and Maheesh Theekshana brought on in the sixth over.

Both struck in their respective spells to put New Zealand on the back foot early.

After being put in to bat, New Zealand lost Tim Robinson and Henry Nicholls during the powerplay, leaving them struggling to recover.

Will Young and Glenn Phillips looked to steady the ship, showing promise during their brief stays at the crease, but Sri Lanka’s spinners continued to strike at regular intervals.

Jeffrey Vandersay, who had been causing problems from the start, eventually outwitted Young, drawing him out of his crease and having him stumped.

Phillips, who had survived a dropped catch and a few close calls, fell to Charith Asalanka, caught attempting a slog sweep.

Chapman then found valuable support from Mitch Hay, who was playing just his second match.

The pair worked the ball around the field efficiently, with Chapman capitalizing on some wayward deliveries.

He even stepped out of his crease to hit Wellalage for a six over deep mid-wicket.

A few overs later, Chapman dispatched a loose delivery from Vandersay for another pull shot over the boundary.

The two added 75 runs in just 72 balls for the fifth wicket before Chapman was dismissed, caught by a diving Avishka Fernando after a fine knock.

Sri Lanka quickly regained control with a flurry of wickets, as New Zealand added just 36 runs for the final six wickets.

Much of the resistance came from Hay, who fought valiantly.

The wicketkeeper-batter was the last to fall, caught behind off Theekshana, one run short of a half-century, handing the spinner his third wicket of the innings.