Sri Lanka Wins ODI Series Against New Zealand

Sri Lanka secured a 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, clinching the series with a thrilling three-wicket victory in the second rain-affected match at Pallekele. Kusal Mendis was instrumental, scoring an unbeaten 74 in the second ODI and a century in the first, leading the team to victory despite battling a groin injury. The decision to rest Mendis and three other key players for the final match was made to prepare for the upcoming Test series in South Africa. New Zealand struggled to build partnerships on spin-friendly tracks, with Sri Lankan spinners like Vandersay and Theekshana dominating. Despite Mitchell Santner's five-wicket haul for New Zealand, they were unable to defend their low totals. The final ODI will be played with replacements Nuwanidu Fernando, Lahiru Udara, and Eshan Malinga stepping in for the rested players.