Sri Lanka are set to embark on a challenging white-ball leg in New Zealand, with the T20I series being the first task. Scheduled across December 28, 30, and January 2, the series is of significant importance for the visiting team. The Lankans have never won a T20I series in New Zealand, and this represents a golden opportunity to change that narrative.

Matches will be played at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, and Saxton Oval, Nelson, both venues known for producing high-scoring thrillers. The series also serves as a proving ground for Sri Lanka to assert themselves against a formidable opposition, albeit one missing key players due to franchise commitments.

Historical rivalry: New Zealand dominates the numbers

In the history of T20I cricket between these two sides, New Zealand holds the upper hand with 14 wins out of the 25 encounters. Sri Lanka has managed eight victories, while one match ended without a result. Notably, two matches between the two sides were decided via Super Overs, showcasing the intensity of their rivalry.

New Zealand’s dominance at home is even more stark, with six wins compared to Sri Lanka’s solitary victory, which came through a Super Over. Despite Sri Lanka’s strong performances in global T20 tournaments, they have struggled to translate that success into bilateral series wins in New Zealand. This series, with a mix of young talent and experienced players on both sides, could tilt the balance.

New Zealand squad: A mix of youth and experience

New Zealand will be without several of their marquee players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Finn Allen, Adam Milne and Lockie Ferguson, who are engaged in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 and SA20 leagues. Despite these absences, the Black Caps have named a competitive squad under the leadership of Mitchell Santner.

Key Inclusions

• Bevon Jacobs: The flamboyant middle-order batter receives his maiden national call-up, adding freshness to the batting lineup.
• Tim Robinson and Mitchell Hay: These top-order batter and wicketkeeper-batter, respectively, are expected to strengthen the top and middle order.
• Zakary Foulkes: The young pacer, known for his ability to swing the ball in both directions, adds depth to the bowling attack.

Return of rested players

Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell and Matt Henry return to the squad after being rested for the recent Sri Lanka tour, ensuring a blend of experience and youth.

Notable absentees

The absence of star players like Williamson and Conway means the team will rely on newer faces to deliver under pressure. This could be a test of depth for the Black Caps, who are ranked 6th in the ICC T20I team rankings.

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Sri Lanka squad: Continuity and stability

Sri Lanka have decided to stick with an almost unchanged squad from their recent series against New Zealand at home. Charith Asalanka will lead the side, and the team seems focused on maintaining continuity in its lineup.

Key players

• Charith Asalanka: The captain and batting all-rounder will play a crucial role in anchoring the innings and providing breakthroughs with his off-spin.
• Bhanuka Rajapaksa: Known for his explosive batting, Rajapaksa will be key in setting up or chasing down big totals.

Notable exclusion

Left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage has been dropped, making way for a more balanced squad composition. Sri Lanka, ranked 8th in the ICC T20I rankings, will rely on their experienced players to guide the young talents in challenging conditions.

Squads

New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith.

Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana

NZ vs SL 2024-25, T20I series: Complete schedule and fixture details

The three-match series will unfold as follows:

• 1st T20I: December 28 at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui; 11:45 AM / 06:15 AM GMT / 07:15 PM LOCAL
• 2nd T20I: December 30 at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui; 11:45 AM / 06:15 AM GMT / 07:15 PM LOCAL
• 3rd T20I: January 2 at Saxton Oval, Nelson; 5:45 AM / 12:15 AM GMT / 01:15 PM LOCAL

Broadcast and live streaming details

• India: Sony Liv, Sony Sports 5
• Sri Lanka: Dialog TV Ten Cricket (Channel 65), Sony Sports Ten 5 HD (Channel 124)
• USA and Canada: ESPN+ (Sign up here)
• New Zealand: TVNZ 1, TVNZ+
• Pakistan: Tapmad
• Australia: Fox Cricket (503), Kayo Sports
• UK: TNT Sports 1

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