Sri Lanka, the current series leaders, opted to field first in the second ODI against New Zealand at Pallekele. The decision was influenced by the likelihood of dew in the evening, which could make batting easier later on. New Zealand, on the other hand, were undecided about their preferred choice but were content to bat first on a favorable track.
Both teams made minimal changes to their lineups. New Zealand retained their unchanged XI, while Sri Lanka replaced seamer Dilshan Madushanka with spin-bowling allrounder Dunith Wellalage. This move reflects the spin-friendly nature of the Pallekele pitch, with both sides opting for just one frontline seam option.
The match commenced on a hot and humid afternoon, with a possibility of rain in the evening. However, the weather is not expected to significantly impact the outcome. Sri Lanka has a strong record at Pallekele, having won seven of their last eight ODIs there. Notably, the last four matches at this venue have been won by the chasing team.
Sri Lanka:
1. Pathum Nissanka
2. Avishka Fernando
3. Kusal Mendis (wk)
4. Sadeera Samarawickrama
5. Charith Asalanka (capt.)
6. Kamindu Mendis
7. Janith Liyanage
8. Dunith Wellalage
9. Maheesh Theekshana
10. Jeffrey Vandersay
11. Asitha Fernando
New Zealand:
1. Tim Robinson
2. Will Young
3. Hentry Nicholls
4. Mark Chapman
5. Glenn Phillips
6. Mitchell Hay (wk)
7. Michael Bracewell
8. Mitchell Santner (capt.)
9. Nathan Smith
10. Ish Sodhi
11. Jacob Duffy
