NZ vs SL Dream11 Prediction, 1st ODI: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Fantasy XI, Captain and Vice-Captain Choices

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NZ vs SL Dream11 Prediction, 1st ODI: The much-anticipated ODI series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is set to begin on January 5, 2025, at the iconic Basin Reserve in Wellington. Following their recent T20I triumph, the Black Caps will aim to extend their dominance in the 50-over format.

The visitors, Sri Lanka, are eager to carry the momentum of their T20I series finale win into this crucial ODI clash. Both teams will be eyeing a strong start as they gear up for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.

This encounter marks a continuation of their spirited white-ball rivalry, with New Zealand holding the upper hand at home. However, Sri Lanka's recent resurgence, led by their mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars, promises a thrilling contest between bat and ball in the Kiwi capital.

Match Information:

• Date: January 5, 2025
• Time: 3:30 AM IST
• Venue: Basin Reserve, Wellington
• Broadcast: Sony Sports network
• Live Stream: SonyLiv App

Pitch and Weather Conditions:

The Basin Reserve pitch favours fast bowlers early on, with significant swing and movement. However, batters can capitalise later as the surface flattens. The average first-innings score here since 2016 is a competitive 296. Teams batting first have enjoyed success in recent games.

Weather-wise, Wellington could see cloudy skies with strong winds. A brief morning drizzle may cause a delayed start, but the match should proceed without much interruption.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Preview:

New Zealand:

New Zealand enters the ODI series with confidence after their 2-1 victory over Sri Lanka in the T20I series. Known for their dominance at home, the Black Caps will look to bounce back from their previous ODI series loss to Sri Lanka earlier this year. The hosts are bolstered by in-form players like Will Young, who has been a revelation at the top order, and Jacob Duffy, whose recent performances in the T20Is earned him the Player of the Series award. Skipper Mitchell Santner's experience and tactical acumen will be pivotal as they aim to secure an early lead in the series.

Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka arrives in New Zealand with renewed vigour and a point to prove. Under the leadership of Charith Asalanka, the team has seen consistent growth in the white-ball format, including back-to-back ODI series wins against the West Indies and New Zealand earlier this year. Star performers like Kusal Mendis, nominated for ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year, and Wanindu Hasaranga, an all-rounder par excellence, will be key to Sri Lanka’s chances. The visitors will also rely on the explosive batting of Avishka Fernando and the bowling prowess of Lahiru Kumara to counter New Zealand’s challenge.

With both teams featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents, the stage is set for an electrifying clash at the Basin Reserve. The outcome of this match could set the tone for the entire series as both sides look to build momentum ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy next month.

Key Players to Watch:

New Zealand:

• Will Young: Accumulated 383 runs in his last seven ODIs, averaging 63.83.
• Jacob Duffy: Recently bagged eight wickets in three T20Is against Sri Lanka.
• Mitchell Santner: A seasoned all-rounder with over 100 ODIs under his belt, Santner’s spin could be crucial in the middle overs.

Sri Lanka:

• Kusal Mendis: Amassed 421 runs in his last nine ODIs at an average of 60.14.
• Wanindu Hasaranga: Claimed 11 wickets in his last five ODIs at a strike rate of 19.09.
• Avishka Fernando: Scored 294 runs in his previous 10 matches, showcasing his consistency.

NZ vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

• Wicketkeeper: Kusal Mendis
• Batters: Will Young, Pathum Nissanka, Rachin Ravindra
• All-rounders: Mitchell Santner, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage
• Bowlers: Matt Henry, Asitha Fernando, Jacob Duffy, Jeffrey Vandersay
• Captain Choices: Will Young, Wanindu Hasaranga
• Vice-Captain Choices: Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner

Team News:

New Zealand: All players are fit; no injury concerns reported.

Sri Lanka: The squad is fully fit and ready for the ODI challenge.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Probable Playing XI:

New Zealand:

Will Young, Mark Chapman, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner (c), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tom Latham (wk), Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, William O'Rourke, Nathan Smith

Sri Lanka:

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Janith Liyanage

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Full Squads:

New Zealand:

Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, William O'Rourke, Mitchell Hay, Nathan Smith

Sri Lanka:

Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka (wk), Avishka Fernando, Nuwanidu Fernando, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage