NZ vs SL 1st ODI, Match Prediction- Who Will Win Today?

New Zealand has another chance to settle their Champions Trophy squad looking particularly at their fringe players. The tournament is coming close and with few ODIs left the chance here will help settle their eleven.

NZ vs SL Match Details

Date: January 5th, 2025

Time:  3:30 AM IST

Venue: Basin River, Wellington

NZ vs SL Weather Report

Rain seems to be staying away with clear weather likely.

NZ vs SL Pitch Report

The track was pretty balanced in the first game. Toss wise, batting second could be better with even purchase for both teams.

NZ vs SL Predicted Playing XI

SL Playing XI

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Nuwanidu Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Wickramasinghe, Lahiru Kumara, Ashitha Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana

NZ Playing XI

Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy

Key Players

Pathum Nissanka

2024 has been a solid year for Nissanka in all formats as he has seemingly settled the debates over his position. He looks at ease against the new-ball and place spin well, going at decent rates.

Daryl Mitchell

Mitchell continues to step up. He walked in at a dire situation for his side but was quick to put his side in a commanding position when he left.

NZ vs SL Match Tips

 Both sides are pretty good in the shortest format but a fightback from a young Sri Lankan side could be on the cards.

Match Prediction: Sri Lanka Will Win The Match