Image: New Zealand women defeated Sri Lanka in 78 consecutive matches in the second ODI / © ESPNcricinfo
With the second ODI between New Zealand Women and Sri Lanka Women taking place at Saxton Oval, Nelson, on March 7, 2025, the White Ferns secured a dominant 78-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, New Zealand struggled initially, losing five wickets for just 110 runs. However, Maddy Green played a match-defining knock, scoring 100 off 109 balls. Her century, combined with a crucial 73-run partnership with Jess Kerr, revived the innings. Sri Lanka’s captain, Chamari Athapaththu, was the standout bowler, taking 2 wickets for 42 runs in her 10-over spell.
Chasing 246, Sri Lanka found it difficult to build momentum against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Hannah Rowe was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 4 wickets for 31 runs. Despite a fighting 59-run inning from Harshitha Samarawickrama, Sri Lanka was bowled out for 167 in 45.4 overs, falling short of the target.
After the first ODI was washed out, this victory gave New Zealand an advantage in the series. The final ODI, set for March 9, presents an opportunity for Sri Lanka to level the series, while New Zealand will aim to secure a series win.