New Zealand Dominates Sri Lanka in 2nd ODI Despite Theekshana's Hat-Trick
On January 8, 2025, New Zealand secured a dominant 113-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second ODI of the series at Hamilton. The match, which had been delayed due to rain, saw Sri Lanka's chase falter from the start. Despite a remarkable hat-trick by Maheesh Theekshana, Sri Lanka's batting collapse left them stranded at 142 all out, while New Zealand posted a competitive 255 for 9 in 37 overs.
Sri Lanka chose to bat first, but the match quickly slipped out of their hands due to early wickets. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Jacob Duffy and Will O'Rourke, unleashed pressure right from the start. Duffy's early strikes left Sri Lanka at a disastrous 4 for 22 in the opening five overs. Sri Lanka’s top order crumbled, with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Avishka Fernando all falling cheaply. The situation worsened when captain Charith Asalanka was run out in a smart fielding move by Mitchell Santner. At that point, Sri Lanka still had 234 runs to chase with just four wickets in hand, leaving them with a nearly impossible task.
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Kamindu Mendis briefly revived the innings with a valiant 64, but he had little support. A brief 57-run partnership with Janith Liyanage was the only resistance, as New Zealand's bowlers continued to tighten the noose. Theekshana's hat-trick in the latter stages of New Zealand’s innings was a bright moment for Sri Lanka, yet it came too late to have any real impact. His outstanding feat was a rare achievement, with some incredible catches taken in the deep to dismiss key New Zealand batters.
Earlier in the day, New Zealand’s top order set a solid foundation, with Rachin Ravindra (79 off 63) and Mark Chapman (62 off 52) combining for a 112-run stand for the second wicket. Their partnership was a display of controlled aggression, with both players finding gaps effortlessly. Ravindra, known for his offside strokes, also used the sweep and the pick-up shot to great effect. Chapman, on the other hand, dominated the leg side and contributed with two sixes, including one that sailed over midwicket.
Although Sri Lanka’s spinners, particularly Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga, managed to strike back in the middle overs, they were not able to prevent New Zealand from posting a competitive total. The fielding from New Zealand was exceptional as well, with Nathan Smith’s remarkable boundary catch being one of the highlights. As a result, New Zealand set a target of 256 runs, which proved to be beyond Sri Lanka’s reach.
The match ended with Sri Lanka being bowled out for 142 in just 30.2 overs. Despite a valiant fight from Mendis and Liyanage, Sri Lanka’s inability to capitalize on the conditions or build partnerships cost them dearly. New Zealand’s victory gave them an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, with the third ODI still to come. For Sri Lanka, it was another disappointing performance, as their top-order struggles continue to haunt them. New Zealand, meanwhile, demonstrated their depth and resilience, with contributions from all departments, including a solid effort from their bowlers and fielders.
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