Jan 11, (V7N) - In the third and final one-day international against New Zealand in Auckland on January 11, 2025, injured opener Pathum Nissanka led the scoring for Sri Lanka with a quick 66 runs, helping the team post a total of 290-8.
 
The visitors, aiming for their first win of the series, started strong with 66 runs without loss before Nissanka had to retire hurt due to a hip injury. Despite leaving the field after scoring 50 off 31 balls, Nissanka returned in the 34th over to contribute an additional 16 runs. His aggressive batting included six fours and five sixes in a 42-ball innings.
 
New Zealand's Matt Henry excelled with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 55 runs, while captain Mitchell Santner added 2 for 55. Sri Lanka's top order had struggled in the previous matches, but Nissanka's performance ensured a more competitive outing. Kusal Mendis also played a vital role, scoring 54 off 48 balls, while Janith Liyanage supported the tail with 53 off 52. Sri Lanka maintained the same lineup as in the second match, while New Zealand made one change, bringing in spinner Michael Bracewell for seamer Jacob Duffy.
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