The 1st T20I between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will take place at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on Saturday. After an impressive tour of India, the Kiwis are looking to bounce back from their disappointing campaign in the recent T20 World Cup. However, Sri Lanka has positive momentum on their side with recent wins against India and New Zealand in ODIs and Tests. The hopes are high for Charith Asalanka and his team to continue their successful streak in the shortest format.
Sri Lanka and New Zealand Clash in T20I Opener: A Rivalry Renewed
The cricketing world turns its attention to Dambulla, Sri Lanka, as the national teams of Sri Lanka and New Zealand prepare for the first of three Twenty20 Internationals. This highly anticipated clash promises to be an exciting battle between two talented and competitive sides.
Historical Context
The rivalry between Sri Lanka and New Zealand dates back to 1982, with the first T20I played in 2005. Over the years, both teams have enjoyed memorable victories and endured tough defeats against each other. Sri Lanka has the slight edge in the head-to-head record, winning 13 of the 25 T20Is contested between the two nations.
Current Form
Sri Lanka comes into the series with renewed confidence following recent wins against India and New Zealand in ODIs and Tests. Charith Asalanka has emerged as a key player for the Lankans, scoring a match-winning century in the ODI series against India. New Zealand, on the other hand, is looking to rebound from a disappointing performance in the recent T20 World Cup.
Players to Watch
Venue and Match Details
The 1st T20I will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on Saturday, August 20. The match will start at 14:00 local time (08:30 GMT).
FAQs
1. Who is the favorite to win the 1st T20I?
Sri Lanka has the advantage of home support and recent form, but New Zealand is a dangerous team and can never be discounted.
2. How many T20Is have Sri Lanka and New Zealand played against each other?
25, with Sri Lanka winning 13 and New Zealand winning 12.
3. Who was the first captain of the Sri Lankan national cricket team?
Bandula Warnapura
4. Who is the highest run-scorer in T20Is for Sri Lanka?
Tillakaratne Dilshan
5. Who has taken the most wickets in T20Is for New Zealand?
Tim Southee
Bollywood star Deepika Padukone joins millions of fans in swooning over Brad Pitt's performance in F1, the highly-anticipated racing film directed by Joseph Kosinski. With a powerful cast, adrenaline-fueled race sequences, and an emotional undercurrent, the film has already received rave reviews since its international release on June 27. Adding to its allure is a star-studded soundtrack and the subtle endorsement of Deepika Padukone.
With his captivating looks and stellar performances, Ajith Kumar has become the talk of the town in the world of Bollywood. From breaking records at the box office to garnering immense fan following, the actor has taken the industry by storm. Stay updated with all the latest news and updates about Ajith Kumar, including his upcoming projects, controversies, and more, on Bollywood Hungama. Don't miss out on any news about this rising superstar.
Navjot Singh Sidhu's return to The Great Indian Kapil Show 3 as a co-judge with Archana Puran Singh was met with enthusiasm in the first episode of the latest season. However, in the second episode, his seat was empty and Kapil Sharma jokingly asked if Archana made him disappear. It was later revealed that Archana had locked Sidhu in his vanity van and he had to be rescued at the end of the episode. The hilariously chaotic prank was enjoyed by all and showcased the playful camaraderie between the cast.
In a highly anticipated UFC lightweight championship bout, IIia Topuria emerged victorious with a first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira in Las Vegas. The explosive fight saw Topuria dominate from the beginning, ending the night with a TKO that earned him the coveted title. Fans are already buzzing with excitement over Topuria's impressive performance and discussing potential future opponents for his first title defense.
President Irfaan Ali has announced that steps have been taken towards the construction of a new national museum in central Georgetown. The museum, which will showcase Guyana's rich cultural heritage, will be built in an area that is currently considered an eyesore. This project is part of the City Redevelopment and Modernisation Plan, which aims to preserve the city's cultural and architectural heritage. The new museum is set to be a magnificent addition to the capital city and is expected to draw both locals and tourists alike.
The highly-anticipated third season of "Squid Game" has finally dropped on Netflix, and fans are raving about the series once again. Despite the overall positive reaction, one element that has remained consistent throughout all three seasons is the collective hatred towards the American VIP characters. With their peculiar and sadistic behavior, viewers can't help but root against them as the main character, Gi-hun, fights to end the deadly game once and for all.
The latest edition of WWE SmackDown was jam-packed with intense matches and surprise moments, setting the stage for the upcoming Night of Champions event. The evening saw wrestlers like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Nia Jax in action, with a brief disruption for international viewers due to a Netflix feed issue. In one match, Jimmy Uso faced off against JC Mateo, but things escalated when Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa entered the mix. Elsewhere, Giulia captured the Women's U.S. Championship, leading to tension between Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, and Jade Cargill. The Tag Team Championship match between The Street Profits and The Wyatt Sicks ended in chaos.
The first ever Podmasters 2025 conclave and awards show, organized by HT Smartcast and Fever Live, brought together digital creators, industry professionals, and Bollywood personalities for a day full of insightful discussions, masterclasses, and awards honoring the best in Indian podcasting. The event showcased the growing influence and presence of the audio medium in India's media landscape, with attendees such as Rhea Chakraborty, Prajakta Koli, Gauhar Khan, and Karishma Tanna adding their own charm and star power to the event. Actress Rhea Chakraborty, who won an award for Best Mental Health Podcast, shared her motivation for starting her own podcast and creating a safe space for open discussions.
BTS fans were shocked and saddened as BIG HIT MUSIC announced the military enlistment of the group's oldest member, Jin. The agency also warned fans of scammers taking advantage of the situation and promised to provide Jin with all the support he needs during his time in the military. Emotional messages and trends like "We love you Jin" and "Take me instead" flooded Twitter as fans bid farewell to their beloved idol.
After almost a year of running, BTS' Jin's variety show, RUN JIN, came to an end with its finale episode on May 27. Towards the end, the idol received a touching video message from his fellow member, j-hope, expressing his appreciation and friendship. Fans and netizens were moved to tears by this display of love and support among the BTS members. As Jin embarks on his solo career with albums and a world tour, fans eagerly await more content from the talented idol.