Mendis, Fernando and spinners star as Sri Lanka clinch rain-affected ODI opener

Sri Lanka Stuns New Zealand in Rain-Hit ODI

Sri Lanka have claimed a thrilling 45-run victory over New Zealand in the second ODI in Dambulla, thanks to a scintillating batting performance from Kusal Mendis (143) and Avishka Fernando (100).

The hosts, set a target of 221 from 27 overs after a lengthy rain break, wrested control of the game with Mendis and Fernando's 206-run stand that dominated New Zealand's slow bowlers.

The visitors, led by Will Young (48 off 46) and Tim Robinson (35 off 36), looked on course to get across the line but introduction of spin saw a collapse that ultimately sealed New Zealand's fate. From 88/0, the visitors lost five wickets for just 22 runs in 29 deliveries, halting their charge.

After Glenn Phillips' fall to Jeffrey Vandersay, Michael Bracewell's 34* off 32 was not enough to stave off the spin choke, which saw Dilshan Madushanka clean up the lower order and mop up New Zealand's chase.

This win marks Sri Lanka's first ODI victory over New Zealand since December 2015.

Series Standings

• Sri Lanka: 1-0
• New Zealand: 0-1