New Zealand clinched the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka with a commanding 98-run victory in the third and final match at Nelson. The first ODI was abandoned due to rain, but the hosts dominated the remaining two fixtures to secure a 2-0 series win. Opting to bat first, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 280/6, powered by Georgia Plimmer’s brilliant century. Sri Lanka’s chase never gained momentum as their top order collapsed against a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack. Jess Kerr and Fran Jonas led the charge with three wickets each, bundling out Sri Lanka for 182 in 50 overs. With this win, New Zealand completed a convincing series whitewash, showcasing their dominance in home conditions.
Georgia Plimmer’s sensational century guides New Zealand to 280/6
New Zealand got off to a steady start with captain Suzie Bates (53) and Georgia Plimmer (112) stitching together a 108-run opening partnership. Plimmer, in sublime form, crafted her maiden international century, anchoring the innings with precise stroke play. Despite losing Emma McLeod cheaply, Brooke Halliday (36) and Maddy Green (32) provided valuable contributions in the middle order. Plimmer’s dismissal in the 45th over slowed the scoring rate, but Isabella Gaze’s late flourish (24 not out off 18) ensured the hosts finished with a strong total of 280/6. Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Sugandika Kumari picking up three wickets but conceding 70 runs in her 10 overs.
Also READ: From Kim Garth to Sophie Devine: Complete list of players who registered for The Hundred 2025 draft
Jess Kerr and Fran Jonas decimate Sri Lanka’s batting lineup
Chasing 281, Sri Lanka got off to a disastrous start as Kerr dismissed both openers inside seven overs. Harshitha Samarawickrama followed soon after, leaving the visitors reeling at 23/3. Imesha Dulani (11 off 42) and Kavisha Dilhari (45 off 54) tried to rebuild but found it tough against a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack. Nilakshika Silva also chipped in with 45, but wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals. Jonas (3/40) and Eden Carson (2/29) ensured Sri Lanka never got close to the target, restricting them to 182 all out in 50 overs. With this emphatic victory, New Zealand sealed the series 2-0, reinforcing their dominance over Sri Lanka in ODI cricket.
New Zealand Dominate with a 98-Run Victory in the final game! 🔥
They seal the 3-match series 2-0 in commanding fashion! 🏏💪#Cricket #NewZealand #SriLanka #ODI #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/MwKfHWe5xw
— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) March 9, 2025
Also READ: Not MS Dhoni! Beth Mooney picks the greatest wicket keeper of all-time
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.
