Pathum Nissanka leads with a gritty 66 in a game of resilience
Auckland, New Zealand — Pathum Nissanka’s resilient knock of 66 helped Sri Lanka post a competitive total of 290-8 in the third ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park on Sunday. Despite struggling with a suspected groin or hip injury, Nissanka returned to the crease and added vital runs to steady the Sri Lankan innings.
Nissanka’s Brave Knock
Nissanka started aggressively, reaching his half-century in just 31 balls. However, his innings was interrupted when he appeared to sustain an injury while running between the wickets. The Sri Lankan opener retired hurt at 50, seeking medical attention on the advice of head coach Sanith Jayasuriya.
He returned to bat in the 34th over after Kamindu Mendis fell for 46. Though visibly struggling, Nissanka managed to add 16 more runs, hitting two boundaries and a six before being dismissed in the 37th over when Sri Lanka was at 204-5.
Contributions from the Top Order
Sri Lanka’s top-order batsmen, who faltered in the earlier games, finally found their rhythm in this match. Nissanka and Avishka Fernando put together a solid 66-run opening stand before Nissanka retired hurt. Fernando, however, struggled for momentum, scoring 17 runs off 33 deliveries before his dismissal.
Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis continued the positive momentum with a partnership of 87 runs for the second wicket. Kusal Mendis scored a quick 54 off 48 balls, including two fours and three sixes, while Kamindu contributed a steady 46 from 71 deliveries.
Late-Order Contributions and New Zealand’s Bowling Efforts
After Nissanka’s departure, Janith Liyanage played a valuable knock of 53 runs off 51 balls, hitting three boundaries and two sixes. His contribution, along with the team’s acceleration in the final 10 overs, helped Sri Lanka add 76 crucial runs to their total.
New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Matt Henry, tried to use the bounce on the drop-in pitch to their advantage but found themselves punished on the square boundaries. Henry was the standout performer, finishing with figures of 4-55.
Sri Lanka’s Revival in the Series
This was Sri Lanka’s best batting performance of the series, following heavy defeats in the first two matches, where New Zealand clinched the series with wins by nine wickets and 113 runs. With 15 sixes in their innings, Sri Lanka showed intent and resilience, setting up an intriguing chase for New Zealand.
