New Zealand and Sri Lanka will be facing each other in the second game of the ongoing NZ vs SL three-match ODI series on Wednesday (January 8, 2025). The game will be played at the Seddon Park, Hamilton.
With the series on the line, Sri Lanka needs to win the game at any cost to keep alive their chances of winning the series. The Islanders suffered a humiliating 9-wicket defeat in the first ODI and need to come up with something special to draw level in the series.
New Zealand completely outplayed Sri Lanka in the series opener. Batting first, Sri Lanka were bowled out for a paltry total of 178 runs. At one stage, they were reeling at 23/4 before a half-century from opener Avishka Fernando helped them cross the 100-run mark.
In reply, New Zealand chased down the total with utmost ease. The hosts crossed the finishing line in less than 27 overs by losing a solitary wicket. With both the teams now gearing for the second ODI, here are all the predictions for the game.
NZ vs SL Match Prediction- 2nd ODI, Sri Lanka tour of New Zealand 2024-25:
Pitch Conditions
The Seddon Park in Hamilton is not really known as a very high-scoring ground. Bowlers have usually dominated the proceedings at the venue. The average first innings total at the venue is a modest 233 runs and anything above 250 will be considered a very challenging total.
Form and Fitness
There are no injury concerns for either of the two teams.
Score Prediction
| Team | 1st Innings | 2nd Innings |
| NZ | 270-280 | 210-220 |
| SL | 200-210 | 180-190 |
NZ vs SL Players to perform prediction
NZ – Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and Jacob Duffy will be the key players for New Zealand.
SL – Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Asitha Fernando will be the key players for Sri Lanka.
NZ vs SL Best Batsman Prediction
Who will score the most runs for NZ in the match: Rachin Ravindra or Will Young
Who will score the most runs for SL in the match: Kamindu Mendis or Pathum Nissanka
NZ vs SL Best Bowler Prediction
Who will pick the most wickets for NZ in the match: Jacob Duffy or Matt Henry
Who will pick the most wickets for SL in the match: Asitha Fernando or Wanindu Hasaranga
Conclusion – Who will win the Match?
New Zealand will start the game as firm favorites and are expected to beat Sri Lanka to win the series. Not only form but the record is also in New Zealand’s favor. The Black Caps have thoroughly dominated Sri Lanka in ODIs at home and will be eyeing another win over them.
New Zealand have played 46 ODIs against Sri Lanka at home so far and have won a staggering 31 of those games. The way things panned out in the first ODI, it won’t be surprising if New Zealand registers another big win over Sri Lanka.
