The highly anticipated clash between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in the 1st ODI of the series will take place on 5th January 2024 at the Basin Reserve, Wellington. Both teams are eager to kick off the new year with a victory in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Here’s a detailed analysis, including key players, betting odds, pitch conditions, head-to-head records, and fantasy cricket tips.
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Match Details
Date: Friday, 5th January 2024
Time: 11:00 AM Local Time (3:30 AM IST)
Venue: Basin Reserve, Wellington
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Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve pitch offers a balance between bat and ball. Early on, seamers can extract swing and seam movement due to the morning moisture. However, as the game progresses, it becomes a good surface for batting, with consistent bounce and pace. Spinners might come into play in the second innings as the pitch slows down.
Average 1st Innings Score: 250-260 runs
Chasing Record: Teams batting second have won 60% of matches at this venue.
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Weather Forecast
Wellington is expected to have clear skies with occasional clouds. There is no significant chance of rain, ensuring a full game. The temperature will hover around 19-22°C, with moderate winds favoring swing bowlers.
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Head-to-Head Record in ODIs
Total Matches Played: 96
New Zealand Wins: 52
Sri Lanka Wins: 43
Tied: 1
Last 5 ODIs Between These Teams:
New Zealand: 4 Wins
Sri Lanka: 1 Win
At Basin Reserve:
Matches Played: 5
New Zealand Wins: 4
Sri Lanka Wins: 1
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Key Players to Watch
New Zealand:
1. Daryl Mitchell: Known for his consistency, Mitchell is a dependable middle-order batter with an average of 50+ in ODIs.
2. Matt Henry: A seasoned pacer who thrives in seaming conditions, Henry is expected to trouble Sri Lanka's top order.
3. Mitchell Santner (C): A dynamic all-rounder capable of making significant contributions with both bat and ball.
Sri Lanka:
1. Kusal Mendis: The wicketkeeper-batter has been in sublime form, with a stellar performance in the recent ODI series against New Zealand.
2. Wanindu Hasaranga: A world-class all-rounder who can change the game with his leg-spin and lower-order hitting.
3. Charith Asalanka (C): A composed batter and an emerging leader for Sri Lanka.
Betting Odds (as of 4th January 2024)
Match Winner:
New Zealand: 1.65
Sri Lanka: 2.30
Top Batsman:
Daryl Mitchell (NZ): 4.50
Kusal Mendis (SL): 5.00
Top Bowler:
Matt Henry (NZ): 3.75
Wanindu Hasaranga (SL): 4.00
Note: Odds are subject to change. Always refer to official platforms for the latest updates.
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Probable Playing XI
New Zealand:
1. Tom Latham (wk)
2. Will Young
3. Rachin Ravindra
4. Daryl Mitchell
5. Mark Chapman
6. Glenn Phillips
7. Michael Bracewell
8. Mitchell Santner (c)
9. Matt Henry
10. Will O’Rourke
11. Jacob Duffy
Sri Lanka:
1. Pathum Nissanka
2. Kusal Mendis (wk)
3. Nuwanidu Fernando
4. Avishka Fernando
5. Charith Asalanka (c)
6. Kamindu Mendis
7. Janith Liyanage
8. Wanindu Hasaranga
9. Maheesh Theekshana
10. Eshan Malinga
11. Mohamed Shiraz
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Fantasy Cricket Tips
Top Picks:
Batters: Daryl Mitchell, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka
All-rounders: Mitchell Santner, Wanindu Hasaranga
Bowlers: Matt Henry, Maheesh Theekshana
Suggested Captaincy Choices:
1. Kusal Mendis: Reliable top-order batter who is in red-hot form.
2. Mitchell Santner: Offers value with his all-round capabilities.
Dream11 Team Suggestion:
Wicketkeeper: Kusal Mendis
Batters: Daryl Mitchell, Pathum Nissanka, Mark Chapman, Charith Asalanka
All-rounders: Mitchell Santner, Wanindu Hasaranga, Rachin Ravindra
Bowlers: Matt Henry, Maheesh Theekshana, Jacob Duffy
Captain: Kusal Mendis
Vice-Captain: Mitchell Santner
Probable Best Performers
Best Batsman: Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)
Best Bowler: Matt Henry (New Zealand)
Best All-rounder: Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
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Match Prediction
Given their recent dominance and home advantage, New Zealand is the favorite to win the match. However, Sri Lanka's spirited performance in recent series and their mix of youth and experience make them capable of pulling off an upset. Expect a competitive game with the Kiwis holding a slight edge.
Disclaimer: Predictions are based on analysis and past performances. Actual results may vary.
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