Matt Henry, Will Young power New Zealand to a dominant win against Sri Lanka

New Zealand cruised to a nine-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the first ODI at Basin Reserve, Wellington, showcasing their dominance with both ball and bat. The hosts bowled out Sri Lanka for 178 runs in 43.4 overs and chased down the target with 23.4 overs to spare, thanks to a commanding unbeaten 90 from Will Young.  

On a seamer-friendly pitch under chilly conditions, New Zealand’s fast bowlers dismantled Sri Lanka’s top order early. Matt Henry led the charge, picking up 4 for 19 in his ten-over spell. He set the tone by dismissing Pathum Nissanka in the fifth over, with the ball seaming away and resulting in a simple catch at mid-off. Jacob Duffy complemented Henry’s efforts, taking the wicket of Kusal Mendis.  

Sri Lanka found themselves in deep trouble at 23 for 4 by the end of the powerplay. Captain Charith Asalanka’s dismissal for a duck added to the pressure, leaving Avishka Fernando and Janith Liyanage to rebuild. The pair put together a solid 87-run partnership, with Avishka scoring his ninth ODI half-century. However, Liyanage’s dismissal for 36 sparked another collapse, with Wanindu Hasaranga (35) and Chamindu Wickramasinghe (22) offering brief resistance.  

New Zealand’s fielding was top-notch throughout, with Mitchell Santner executing a brilliant run-out and Mark Chapman standing out in the point region. The disciplined bowling and sharp fielding kept Sri Lanka in check, never allowing them to recover fully.  

In reply, New Zealand’s top order ensured a smooth chase. Rachin Ravindra and Will Young built a solid opening stand of 93 runs, with Ravindra contributing 45 before being dismissed. Young remained dominant, punishing Sri Lanka’s bowlers for any loose deliveries, especially with his pull shots. He raced past his tenth ODI fifty, finishing unbeaten on 90 off 86 balls.  

Mark Chapman provided steady support, adding an unbeaten 87-run partnership with Young to seal the victory. New Zealand’s commanding performance highlighted their all-round strength and secured an emphatic win over Sri Lanka.