Wellington, Jan 5, (V7N) – Avishka Fernando’s gritty half-century and a crucial 87-run partnership with Janith Liyanage rescued Sri Lanka from an early collapse, setting a target of 178 in the first ODI against New Zealand at the Basin Reserve.

New Zealand’s Matt Henry led a devastating bowling display, claiming 4-19 from his 10 overs, while skipper Mitchell Santner contributed with a wicket, a run-out, and three sharp catches.

Sent in to bat on a seaming green pitch, Sri Lanka stumbled to 23-4 within 10 overs. Key dismissals included:

Pathum Nissanka (9): Dismissed by Henry, caught at mid-off by Santner.Kusal Mendis (2): Inside-edged onto the stumps off Jacob Duffy.Kamindu Mendis (3): Run out by Santner.

Charith Asalanka (3): Caught behind off Nathan Smith after a successful New Zealand review.

Fernando steadied the ship, scoring his fifth ODI half-century with six boundaries and a six. Supported by Liyanage's patient 36, the pair rebuilt the innings to 108-4 by the 25th over before Santner dismissed Liyanage, and Smith removed Fernando shortly after.

Chamindu Wickramasinghe (22) and Wanindu Hasaranga (35 off 33) added 48 runs for the seventh wicket, offering some late resistance. However, Henry returned to clean up the tail, dismissing both Wickramasinghe and debutant Eshan Malinga (4).

New Zealand’s bowlers capitalized on cold, windy conditions that kept fans away from a potential sellout. With 178 to chase, New Zealand will look to assert dominance in the three-match series opener.

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