On March 4, 2025, at 6:30 AM IST, hosts New Zealand will face Sri Lanka in the first of three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) at McLean Park in Napier, followed by a three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series.
As regular captain Sophie Devine continues her time away from the game, Suzie Bates will lead New Zealand in both formats. The White Ferns will also be without Amelia Kerr, who is currently playing in the Women’s Premier League. Despite starting as underdogs, Sri Lanka, under the seasoned leadership of Chamari Athapaththu, boasts a strong squad capable of competing with the hosts.
Although New Zealand has struggled in recent 50-over matches and lost their most recent ODI series at home to Australia (2-0), they will be eager to deliver a strong performance. With the absence of key players, including last-minute injuries to Hayley Jensen and Bella James, this series presents an opportunity for young talent to shine. Their ODI form has been inconsistent despite winning the Women’s T20 World Cup last year, making this series a critical test of the squad’s depth.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat to Ireland in their most recent 50-over series in August 2024. However, they have shown promise in recent games, including the warm-up matches leading up to this series. To challenge the hosts, Sri Lanka will rely heavily on Athapaththu’s leadership and the contributions of their experienced players.
Head-to-Head:
New Zealand and Sri Lanka have faced each other in 13 ODIs, with New Zealand dominating the bilateral encounters with 11 wins. However, both of Sri Lanka’s victories came in their most recent ODI series in June 2023 in Sri Lanka. In the must-win third ODI, skipper Chamari Athapaththu led from the front, smashing a majestic 80-ball 140* as Sri Lanka secured a commanding eight-wicket victory. They chased down the revised target of 196, losing just two wickets in 26.5 overs, with 13 balls to spare.
The White Ferns will aim to reassert their dominance in the upcoming series, while Sri Lanka will look to carry forward their momentum, setting the stage for an exciting contest ahead.
Where to watch New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Women’s ODI series?
Fans in India can watch the game live on the FanCode app and website, as there will be no television broadcast for this bilateral series.
Squads:
New Zealand women’s cricket team
Suzie Bates (C), Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Eden Carson, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Emma McLeod, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe
Sri Lanka women’s cricket team
Chamari Athapaththu (C), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Nilakshika Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Anushka Sanjeewani, Manudi Nanayakkara, Imesha Dulani, Achini Kulasuriya, Udeshika Prabodhani, Sachini Nisansala, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Inoshi Priyadarshini, Sugandika Kumari, Rashmika Sewwandi, Chethana Vimukthi
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka ODI Series Schedule:
1st ODI: March 4 – McLean Park, Napier, 6:30 AM IST
2nd ODI: March 7 – Saxton Oval, Nelson, 3:30 AM IST
3rd ODI: March 9 – Saxton Oval, Nelson, 3:30 AM IST
Broadcast and Live Streaming Details:
For fans in New Zealand –
All games will be available on TVNZ Duke and TVNZ +
For fans in Sri Lanka –
T.B.C.
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