New Zealand (NZ) and Sri Lanka (SL) are all set to lock horns in the first T20I of the three-game T20I series, at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, on Saturday, December 28. The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka prediction for the 1st T20 highlights an exciting contest between two teams with contrasting forms. Scheduled for Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, this match promises action-packed cricket. New Zealand enters as the favorites, but Sri Lanka’s resurgence cannot be underestimated.
Sri Lanka are set to begin their white-ball leg in New Zealand with a three-match T20I series. Mount Maunganui and Nelson will host the three games on December 28, 30, and January 2. The two sides have produced some riveting T20I encounters in the past. Notably, the Lankans eye their maiden T20I series win in the country.
As mentioned, Sri Lanka are vying for their maiden T20I series win in New Zealand. The two countries have clashed in only two series comprising three-plus matches in New Zealand (2019 and 2023), both won by the home side.
NZ vs SL : Previous Performances
In Sri Lanka’s last T20I series at home, they shared the series 1-1 against the Kiwis. Both the teams looked in good shape when they played each other in November. With the BlackCaps now hosting the Lankan Lions, the Mitchell Santner-led side will look to make good use of their conditions.
Sri Lanka’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions will be key. With a mix of experienced players and rising stars, they can provide a strong challenge to New Zealand. A win in the opening match could set the tone for an exciting series.
NZ vs SL : Head to Head
New Zealand and Sri Lanka have locked horns in 25 T20Is as of now. The Kiwis lead the head-to-head record 14-10, while one match was washed out. Notably, two matches were decided via the Super-Over method. New Zealand have a 6-1 lead over Sri Lanka at home. Meanwhile, the Lankans have won another T20I in the country through Super Over.
| Matches Played | 25 |
| Won by New Zealand | 14 |
| Won by Sri Lanka | 10 |
| No Result | 01 |
| First-ever Fixture | 22 December 2006 |
| Most-recent Fixture | 10 November 2024 |
NZ vs SL : Pitch Report
The Bay Oval surface at Mount Maunganui favours batters. Initially, the ball tends to swing, helping fast bowlers to pick early wickets. However, as the match progresses, batting becomes more manageable on this track. Spinners might find the going tough during the first innings, but the pitch substantially assists them during the second innings. The team that wins the toss will look to bat first.
The Bay Oval pitch favors batters but offers some assistance to pacers early in the innings. Spinners may play a role in the middle overs. A first-innings score of 170+ will be competitive. The weather in Mount Maunganui is expected to be sunny with temperatures around 25°C. There’s no rain forecast, ensuring a full game.
NZ vs SL : Vital Stats that matters
- Sri Lanka hasn’t won against New Zealand in New Zealand in last seven games
- New Zealand plays at home, and the players know the conditions well
- Sri Lanka’s batsmen have struggled against quality pace attacks
- Mitchell Santner, who will be leading New Zealand as full-time captain, eyes the 120-wicket mark in T20Is. He is three wickets shy of the same.
- Wanindu Hasaranga could become the first player with 130 T20I wickets for Sri Lanka.
- Kusal Mendis (1,842) is closing in on 2,000 runs in the format. He would become the first-ever SL player with this feat.
NZ vs SL : New Zealand and Sri Lanka Team News
New Zealand :
NZ vs SL : Probable Top Performers from NZ vs SL
Probable Best Batter: Pathum Nissanka
Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka could be the best batter in the upcoming game against New Zealand. Nissanka in the last T20I series against the same opponents at home was the highest run-scorer of the series. In two games, he scored 71 runs at an average of 35.50. The 26-year-old will be looking to play the same brand of cricket in the coming series.
Probable Best Bowler: Matt Henry
New Zealand’s veteran pacer Matt Henry could be the best bowler in the upcoming clash against Sri Lanka. The speedster is the most experienced pacer in the side, and he will look to make that of good use. Henry, who bowls at good pace and can attract extra bounce and some movement initially, could affect the visiting batting line-up.
NZ vs SL : Match Prediction
With a stronger team and better T20 history, New Zealand is expected to win this match comfortably. New Zealand is the favorite due to their superior head-to-head record, home advantage, and the presence of experienced players like Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner.
Scenario 1
New Zealand win the toss and opt to bat first
PP Score: 60-70
NZ: 160-170
New Zealand win the match
Scenario 2
Sri Lanka win the toss and opt to bat first
PP Score: 50-60
SL: 150-160
Sri Lanka win the match