New Zealand secured a dominant nine-wicket victory, on Sunday, over Sri Lanka in the first ODI of the three-match series at the Basin Reserve. A clinical performance by the hosts saw them comfortably chase down a target of 179, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bowl first on a green surface, and his decision paid dividends as the Blackcaps' bowlers ripped through Sri Lanka's top order. Matt Henry was the standout performer, claiming four wickets for just 19 runs in his ten overs, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Sri Lanka's innings never gained momentum, with early strikes leaving them reeling at 23 for 4 inside the first ten overs. Despite a brief resistance from Janith Liyanage (36 off 54) and Wanindu Hasaranga (35 off 33), the visitors struggled to build meaningful partnerships. Eventually, they were bowled out for 178 in 43.4 overs.
In response, New Zealand's opening duo of Will Young and Rachin Ravindra laid a solid foundation with a 93-run partnership. Ravindra was dismissed for a well-made 45, but Young continued his fine form, finishing unbeaten on 90. Mark Chapman joined him to guide the hosts across the finish line, with Chapman contributing 29 not out.
Young sealed the win in style, pulling a short ball from Chamindu Wickramasinghe for four, completing the chase in just 26.2 overs.
The teams will now head to Hamilton for the second ODI, where Sri Lanka will look to bounce back and level the series.
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