The ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 is all set for Match 41 between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, which will take place on Thursday, November 9 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore. New Zealand is led by Kane Williamson, while Sri Lanka is captained by Kusal Mendis.
As of now, 101 ODI matches have been played between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, in which New Zealand has won 51 matches while Sri Lanka has won 41 matches. The New Zealand team is currently ranked fifth, while the Sri Lanka team is ranked seventh in the ICC ODI rankings.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 3 Key Player Battles to Watch Out in Today Match
Here are top five players to watch out during New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, 41st Match ICC ODI World Cup 2023:
1) Pathum Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka has exhibited exceptional batting form, emerging as the second-highest run-scorer for his team in this tournament and leading the charts for the year. He has notched up 330 runs, featuring four half-centuries, making him a prized wicket for the opposition. New Zealand will seek to dismiss him early to prevent him from setting a strong foundation for Sri Lanka.
2) Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra is currently in the form of his life and stands out as New Zealand’s most prominent player. He recently achieved a century and has accumulated a total of 523 runs at an impressive average and strike rate of 74.71 and 107.39, respectively, including three centuries and two half-centuries. He is undoubtedly the player to keep a close eye on.
3) Dilshan Madushanka
Dilshan Madushanka has been a revelation for Sri Lanka in this tournament, leading the wicket-taking charts. The left-arm pacer has troubled top-order batters and captured 21 wickets in just eight games, with a remarkable best of 5/80. His ability to take wickets makes him a significant threat to New Zealand in the upcoming match.
4) Daryl Mitchell
Daryl Mitchell has showcased remarkable consistency for his team throughout the tournament, amassing 375 runs with an impressive average and strike rate of 62.50 and 108.06, respectively. He has registered one century and two half-centuries, often providing strong starts in the middle-order. New Zealand will rely on his ability to anchor the innings and unleash powerful strokes against Sri Lanka.
5) Sadeera Samarawickrama
Sadeera Samarawickrama has been in outstanding form for Sri Lanka in this competition, emerging as the highest run-scorer for his team and the only consistent performer in the lineup. He has amassed 372 runs with an average and strike rate of 62.00 and 102.47, respectively. His wicket will be highly sought after by the Kiwis, as his current form could potentially sway the game in Sri Lanka’s favor.