Rain interrupted the first ODI between Sri Lanka and New Zealand in Dambulla, causing a break in play. Sri Lanka's captain Charith Asalanka won the toss and chose to bat first in the match. Three New Zealand players, all-rounder Nathan Smith, top-order batsman Tim Robinson, and wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay, will be making their ODI debuts in the game. The upcoming ODI series between the two teams is currently tied at 1-1 after a drawn T20 series.
Sri Lanka and New Zealand Clash in Dambulla, Rain Interrupts Play
In the ongoing ODI series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, rain has put a damper on the first match in Dambulla.
Background:
The ODI series between the two nations comes on the heels of a drawn T20 series, which ended 1-1. New Zealand is currently ranked second in the ICC ODI rankings, while Sri Lanka sits at eighth position.
Match Details:
Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka won the toss and elected to bat first. However, persistent rain forced a pause in play after just 19 overs. At the time of the interruption, Sri Lanka was struggling at 58/5, with Pathum Nissanka and Bhanuka Rajapaksa the only batsmen who had made double-figure scores.
Debutants on Display:
The match marked the ODI debuts for three New Zealand players: Nathan Smith, Tim Robinson, and Mitchell Hay. Smith is a hard-hitting all-rounder who has represented New Zealand in T20Is, while Robinson is a top-order batsman who has impressed in domestic cricket. Hay is a wicketkeeper-batsman who has played for New Zealand at youth level.
FAQs:
1. When will the first ODI resume? A: The resumption of play will depend on the weather conditions. No official time has been announced yet.
2. Who are the leading run-scorers in the ODI series so far? A: For Sri Lanka, Kusal Mendis is the leading run-scorer with 58 runs in two matches. For New Zealand, Martin Guptill is the top scorer with 73 runs.
3. Who are the leading wicket-takers in the ODI series so far? A: For Sri Lanka, Kasun Rajitha has taken three wickets in two matches. For New Zealand, Ish Sodhi and Tim Southee have both taken three wickets.
4. What are the current standings in the ODI series? A: After the first match being abandoned due to rain, the ODI series is currently tied 0-0.
5. When is the second ODI scheduled to be played? A: The second ODI is scheduled to be played on August 30th, also in Dambulla.
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