New Zealand and Sri Lanka will face each other in the second game of the ongoing NZ vs SL three-match ODI series on Wednesday (January 8, 2025). The match will be played at Seddon Park, Hamilton.
With the series at stake, Sri Lanka need to win the game at any cost to keep their chances of winning the series alive. The Islanders suffered a humiliating 9-wicket defeat in the first ODI and need to come up with something special to level the series.
New Zealand completely outclassed Sri Lanka in the series opener. Batting first, Sri Lanka were bowled out for a total of 178 runs. At one stage, they were reeling at 23/4 before a half-century from opener Avishka Fernando helped them pass the 100-run mark.
In reply, New Zealand chased down the total with the utmost ease. The hosts crossed the finish line in less than 27 overs losing a single wicket. With both teams now gearing up 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:
Field conditions
Hamilton's Seddon Park isn't exactly known as a high-scoring course. Bowlers have usually dominated the proceedings at the venue. The first innings total average at the venue is 233 runs and anything above 250 will be considered a very challenging total.
Shape and fitness
There are no injury concerns for either TEAMS.
Score prediction
| Team | The first half | 2nd half |
| NZ | 270-280 | 210-220 |
| SL | 200-210 | 180-190 |
NZ vs SL players will make predictions
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 I hated Fernando they 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 Player 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 expect to beat Sri Lanka to win the series. Not only the form but the record is also in New Zealand's favour. The Black Caps completely dominated Sri Lanka in the ODIs at home and will be eyeing another win over them.
New Zealand have so far played 46 ODIs against Sri Lanka at home and have won 31 of those games. The way things went in the first ODI, it won't be surprising if New Zealand register another big win over Sri Lanka.