In an exhilarating encounter at Seddon Park, Hamilton, New Zealand claimed a dominating victory by 113 runs in the second ODI against Sri Lanka. The match, which was reduced to 37 overs per side due to rain, saw an outstanding fielding performance from Nathan Smith, who took a sensational catch to dismiss Eshan Malinga during Sri Lanka’s innings.

An unbelievable diving catch from Nathan Smith

One of the major highlights of the day came in the 29th over when New Zealand’s fast bowler William O’Rourke bowled to Sri Lanka’s Malinga. Malinga, attempting to ramp the delivery over the keeper’s head, was unable to get enough power on the shot. The ball flew off the splice of his bat and began to dip toward the fine third man. Smith, stationed at fine third man, made an incredible leap horizontally to his right, maintaining focus on the ball until the last second. His fully stretched hands caught the ball cleanly, completing what could easily be the catch of the series. Malinga’s innings was cut short for just 4 runs off 5 balls, thanks to Smith’s brilliant fielding.

Here is the video:

Nathan Smith! A screamer on the Seddon Park boundary to dismiss Eshan Malinga 🔥 #NZvSL #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/sQKm8aS07F

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) January 8, 2025

Despite having a couple of misfields earlier in the day, Smith’s outstanding catch was the perfect redemption. His ?spectacular effort seemed to energize the New Zealand side, and it was a moment that will be remembered throughout the series. Smith’s contribution wasn’t limited to the field,  he also impressed with the ball, taking 1 wicket for 34 runs from his 7 overs.

O’Rourke, the 23-year-old fast bowler, was another key performer for New Zealand. His bowling was crucial in breaking Sri Lanka’s resistance, especially in the middle overs. O’Rourke took 3 wickets for just 31 runs in his 6.2 overs, with one of those wickets coming from the exceptional catch by Smith.

Also READ: New Zealand announces 15-member squad for Women’s U19 T20 World Cu?p 2025; Tash Wakelin to lead

Sri Lanka’s struggles with the bat

Batting first after the rain delay, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 255/9 in their allotted 37 overs. Rachin Ravindra was the standout batter for the Kiwis, scoring a composed 79 runs. Maheesh Theekshana, the Sri Lankan bowler, was the pick of the bowlers for his team, claiming 4 wickets and providing much-needed breakthroughs in the middle overs. In response, Sri Lanka struggled to build partnerships and were bowled out for just 142 in 30.2 overs. Kamindu Mendis was the only batter to provide some resistance, scoring a valiant 64 runs, but he lacked support from the other end. Despite Mendis’ effort, Sri Lanka fell well short of the required total, handing New Zealand a comfortable victory.

Also WATCH: Maheesh Theekshana lights up Seddon Park with a brilliant hat-trick in t??he Hamilton ODI | NZ vs SL

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Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming ODI series between Sri Lanka and India, set to begin on August 2. The series promises to deliver high-intensity cricket, with both teams looking to showcase their talents and build momentum ahead of future tournaments. India’s formidable lineup will face off against a determined Sri Lankan squad, making for an exciting contest that fans are keenly looking forward to.

Sri Lanka suffers major setback

However, Sri Lanka has encountered a significant setback as fast bowlers Matheesha Pathirana and Dilshan Madushanka have been ruled out of the series due to injuries. Pathirana sustained a mild sprain on his right shoulder while diving to take a catch during the third T20I on July 30 in Kandy, while Madushanka suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring injury during a fielding practice session. This adds to the team’s woes, with key pacers Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara already sidelined before the T20I series.

Replacements for the duo

In response to these injuries, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the inclusion of uncapped fast bowlers Mohamed Shiraz and Eshan Malinga as replacements for the injured duo. Shiraz boasts an impressive Li??st A record with 80 wickets in 47 games at an economy of 4.57, while the 23-year-old Malinga, who debuted in July 2022, has taken 12 wickets in seven games at an economy rate of 5.80. Additionally, ??Kusal Janith Perera, Pramod Madushan, and Jeffrey Vandersay have been named as standby players for the series. The replacements will be eager to make an impact and help Sri Lanka contend with the strong Indian side.

Also READ: SL vs I?ND 2024, ODI Series: Broadcast, live streaming details �When and Where to watch in India, USA, UK, Sri Lanka & other countries

Fans expect a cracker of a series

Despite the injury setbacks, fans are anticipating a thrilling series between Sri Lanka and India. The inclusion of fresh talent adds an element of unpredictability, and supporters are excited to see how the new players perform on the big stage. The series is expected to be a highly competitive a??nd entertaining affair, with both teams vying for supremacy. With the first match just around the corner, the cricketing world is buzzing with excitement for what promises to be an unforgettable series.

Updated Sri Lanka squad for India ODIs:

Charith Asalanka (c), Pa?thum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nishan Madushka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya??, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz, Eshan Malinga.

Also READ: SL vs IND:? India’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

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