Sri Lanka defeated New Zealand by 140 runs in the third and final ODI match at Eden Park in Auckland, managing a consolation win in the three-match series on Saturday, January 11.
New Zealand won the series 2-1, having won the first two matches comfortably in Mount Maunganui and Nelson respectively.
The hosts were bowled out for 150 runs in 29.4 overs while chasing a huge target of 291 runs. Mark Chapman was the last batter to be dismissed as his fighting knock of 81 runs in as many balls came to an end.
On the back of 10 fours and a six, he ended up being New Zealand’s top run-getter in the match.
The hosts never looked on track during their run chase as their three batters Will Young, Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips were dismissed for 0. On the other hand, Rachin Ravindra (1), Daryl Mitchell (2), Michael Bracewell (13) and skipper Mitchell Santner (2) departed cheaply.
Apart from Chapman, no other New Zealand batter managed to reach even the 20-run mark.
For Sri Lanka, Asitha Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana and Eshan Malinga picked up three wickets each whereas Janith Liyanage found a scalp as well.
After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a big total of 290/8 in their 50 overs with Pathum Nissanka (66), Kusal Mendis (54) and Janith Liyanage (53) smashing respective half-centuries. Kamindu Mendis made a crucial contribution of 46 runs as well.
Matt Henry was the pick of the bowlers for the Blackcaps with four wickets for 55 runs in his 10 overs. While Santner took two wickets, Nathan Smith and Bracewell found a scalp each as well.
For his remarkable bowling figures of 3/26 in his seven overs, Asitha Fernando was adjudged as the Player of the Match.
Matt Henry ended the series as the leading wicket-taker. With nine wickets to his name, Henry was named Player of the Series.
