

In a high-scoring match, opener Pathum Nissanka led the way for Sri Lanka, scoring a quickfire 66 before retiring with an injury. However, he returned later to add crucial runs to the total and help his team post a competitive target of 290-8. Despite a strong start from New Zealand, Sri Lanka's bowlers were able to restrict them to just 150 runs, with seamer Matt Henry claiming four wickets. Sri Lanka's convincing win in the final ODI gave them a series clean sweep after losing the first two matches.
Sri Lanka Triumphs Over New Zealand, Securing a Comprehensive Series Win
In a closely contested final match at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, Sri Lanka emerged victorious over New Zealand by 140 runs, securing a remarkable series clean sweep.
Match Highlights
Opener Pathum Nissanka set the tone for Sri Lanka, scoring a rapid 66 before retiring due to an injury. He later returned to contribute an additional 28 runs, helping his team reach a formidable total of 290-8.
New Zealand's chase started promisingly, but Sri Lanka's bowlers proved too formidable. Seamer Matt Henry wreaked havoc, capturing four wickets as the home team was restricted to just 150 runs.
Series Significance
This victory marks a significant triumph for Sri Lanka, who had lost the first two matches of the series. The clean sweep is a testament to their resilience and determination.
Background
The Sri Lankan cricket team has a long history of competition with New Zealand, dating back to 1982. Over the years, both teams have enjoyed notable victories and memorable encounters.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the current ODI series record between Sri Lanka and New Zealand? A: Sri Lanka holds a 15-10 advantage in ODI matches against New Zealand.
2. Who is the all-time leading run-scorer in Sri Lanka vs. New Zealand ODIs? A: Sanath Jayasuriya (1,678 runs)
3. Who is the all-time leading wicket-taker in Sri Lanka vs. New Zealand ODIs? A: Chaminda Vaas (40 wickets)
4. When was the first ODI match played between Sri Lanka and New Zealand? A: December 10, 1982, at McLean Park, Napier
5. What was the highest total ever scored by Sri Lanka in an ODI against New Zealand? A: 360-6 in 2019

Despite strong domestic form, Indian batsmen Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan failed to attract any bids in the IPL 2026 auction, while Kolkata Knight Riders shelled out a record Rs 25.20 crore to secure Australian all-rounder Cameron Green. Shaw's lack of bids comes after being released by Delhi Capitals, despite his success with Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan's omission raises eyebrows after his rapid 73 off 22 balls and fastest Mumbai fifty in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The IPL 2026 mini auction is underway in Abu Dhabi, with all franchises vying for top players to strengthen their squads. With only 77 slots available for 369 players, intense bidding has already taken place, resulting in some high-priced purchases. Among the most expensive players bought so far are Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, Sri Lankan speedster Matheesha Pathirana, and Indian all-rounders Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma. With big-name players still up for grabs, it will be interesting to see who will come out on top at the end of the auction.

Indian cricketer Ravi Bishnoi made headlines on Tuesday as he was picked by Rajasthan Royals for a staggering amount of Rs. 7.20 crore at the IPL 2026 Auction. The leg-spinner, who previously played for Lucknow Super Giants in the 2025 season, had a base price of Rs. 2 crore and sparked a bidding war between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings. Ultimately, it was Rajasthan Royals who emerged victorious, securing Bishnoi for a lucrative deal.

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In a dominant performance, New Zealand claimed a nine-wicket victory against the West Indies in the second test match, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Seamer Jacob Duffy took five wickets, his second five-wicket haul in Tests, while debutant Michael Rae also impressed with three wickets. Despite a strong start from Brandon King and Kavem Hodge, the West Indies fell to the New Zealand bowlers and now trail 1-0 in the three-match series.

In a stunning move, Kolkata Knight Riders splurged a whopping Rs 18 crore for Sri Lankan bowler Matheesha Pathirana in the ongoing IPL 2026 auction. Known for his deadly yorkers and impressive bowling speed, Pathirana is an explosive addition to KKR's already formidable bowling attack.His previous performance in IPL 2023 for Chennai Super Kings, where he took 19 wickets at an economy of 8.01, caught the attention of the team owners. However, his form seemed to have dipped in IPL 2025, leading to his release. With this massive bid, KKR is clearly determined to create a winning team for the upcoming season.

Despite being listed as a batter instead of an all-rounder at the 2026 IPL auction, Cameron Green confirms he will be available to bowl in the upcoming season. The 26-year-old, who has previously represented Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore, missed the previous season while recovering from back surgery. However, he has since been cleared to bowl and has been performing effectively as a full all-rounder for Australia in the ongoing Ashes series.

In a shocking start to the IPL 2026 auction, Prithvi Shaw, with a base price of INR 75 lac, did not receive any bids. This was the second consecutive year where the young batter has gone unsold, despite being in decent form in the Indian domestic circuit. Despite interest from Kolkata Knight Riders, who have the largest purse of INR 64.30 crore, Shaw was not picked by any team. His off-the-field antics and recent switch to the Maharashtra state team may have affected his bids.

South African cricket star Quinton de Kock has been added to the Mumbai Indians roster for the upcoming Indian Premier League season. The explosive wicket-keeper batsman was bought for Rs. 1 crore in the auction held on Tuesday, following his impressive performance in the T20I match against India last week. This news has caught the attention of cricket fans and generated excitement for De Kock's potential impact on the team.

The Indian Premier League auction in Abu Dhabi was filled with surprises and big-spending as Kolkata Knight Riders snagged top Australian all-rounder Cameron Green for a whopping Rs 25.20 crore. Meanwhile, Indian stars Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan went unsold despite their recent strong performances. Delhi Capitals also picked up South African batter David Miller for his base price of Rs 2 crore, while New Zealand's Devon Conway did not receive any bids. With a total of 359 players up for auction, including 113 overseas players, the mini auction proved to be an exciting event for cricket fans.