In the second One Day International (ODI) between New Zealand Women and Sri Lanka Women at Saxton Oval, Nelson, on March 7, 2025, New Zealand secured a comprehensive victory by 78 runs, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Match Summary
- New Zealand Innings: 245/7 in 50 overs
- Sri Lanka Innings: 167 all out in 42.3 overs
- Result: New Zealand won by 78 runs
Toss and Pitch Conditions
New Zealand’s captain, Suzie Bates, won the toss and elected to bat first. The pitch at Saxton Oval was expected to be favorable for batting, with spinners anticipated to play a significant role as the match progressed.
New Zealand’s Batting Performance
Opening the innings, Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer provided a steady start, adding 45 runs for the first wicket. Bates was dismissed for 28 runs, and Plimmer followed with 22 runs. The early dismissals brought Maddy Green to the crease. Green anchored the innings with a masterful century, scoring 100 runs off 125 balls, including 9 fours. Her partnerships with Brooke Halliday (35 runs) and Polly Inglis (20 runs) were crucial in stabilizing the innings and setting a competitive total of 245/7.
Sri Lanka’s Bowling Highlights
Sri Lankan bowlers displayed moments of brilliance, with Achini Kulasuriya being the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets for 45 runs. Inoshi Priyadharshani and Sugandika Kumari contributed with economical spells, each taking a wicket and maintaining pressure on the New Zealand batters.
Sri Lanka’s Batting Response
Chasing a target of 246 runs, Sri Lanka faced early setbacks with the dismissal of captain Chamari Athapaththu for just 9 runs. Harshitha Samarawickrama provided resistance with a well-compiled 66 runs off 96 balls but lacked support from the other end. Vishmi Gunaratne (30 runs) and Nilakshi de Silva (17 runs) showed promise but couldn’t convert their starts into substantial contributions. The team was eventually bowled out for 167 runs in 42.3 overs.
New Zealand’s Bowling Excellence
Hannah Rowe led the bowling attack with remarkable efficiency, taking 4 wickets for 32 runs in her 8 overs. Her disciplined line and length troubled the Sri Lankan batters throughout their innings. She was well-supported by Bree Illing, who claimed 2 wickets for 42 runs, and Jess Kerr, who took 1 wicket for 21 runs. The collective effort of the bowlers ensured that Sri Lanka couldn’t build any significant partnerships.
Player of the Match
Maddy Green was adjudged the Player of the Match for her outstanding century, which laid the foundation for New Zealand’s total. Her ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed was instrumental in the team’s success.
Series Context
With this victory, New Zealand clinched the three-match ODI series, leading 2-0 with one match remaining. The first ODI was abandoned due to rain after Sri Lanka had scored 147/5 in 36.4 overs.
Upcoming Fixtures
The third and final ODI will be played at the same venue, Saxton Oval in Nelson, on March 8, 2025. Following the ODI series, the teams will compete in a three-match T20I series, starting on March 13, 2025, in Christchurch.
Reflections on the Match
New Zealand’s dominance in this match can be attributed to their balanced team performance. Maddy Green’s century showcased her temperament and skill, especially under pressure after early wickets. Her shot selection and ability to find gaps were exemplary. On the bowling front, Hannah Rowe’s four-wicket haul highlighted her precision and strategic approach, effectively exploiting the conditions to her advantage.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka will need to reassess their strategies. While Harshitha Samarawickrama’s innings were a positive takeaway, the lack of substantial partnerships and the inability to counter New Zealand’s disciplined bowling were evident shortcomings. The team will aim to address these issues ahead of the final ODI to avoid a series whitewash.
Conclusion
The second ODI between New Zealand Women and Sri Lanka Women was a testament to New Zealand’s cricketing prowess, with stellar performances from Maddy Green and Hannah Rowe. As the series progresses, both teams will look to fine-tune their performances, with New Zealand aiming for a clean sweep and Sri Lanka striving for a consolatory win in the final ODI.
