NZ vs. SL [WATCH]: Charith Asalanka’s stunning catch sends Rachin Ravindra into the 2nd ODI

In a thrilling encounter at Seddon Park in Hamilton, the stakes were high New Zealand faced Sri Lanka in the second ODI their three-game series. WITH New Zealand lead 1-0 after a convincing victory in the first match, Sri Lanka needed to secure a win to keep their hopes alive in the series. The match was staged against the backdrop of overcast skies and the prospect of rain, which added an extra layer of drama to the proceedings.

Tough start for New Zealand

Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to field first, hoping to take advantage of the conditions early. New Zealand’s innings got off to a shaky start as they lost Will Young in only a fifth more. This early setback could have derailed their momentum, but Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman stepped up to stabilize the innings with an outstanding partnership of 112 runs. Their collaboration was crucial, allowing New Zealand to recover from a shaky start and build the foundations for a competitive total.

Ravindra showed his talent with the bat, scoring his half-century with an impressive six that reverberated through the ground. As he continued to dominate the bowling attack, he looked set to reach his hundred, which would significantly boost New Zealand’s chances of setting a daunting target.

READ ALSO: Matt Henry, Will Young shine in New Zealand’s resounding win over Sri Lanka in 1st ODI

Charith Asalanka takes off the blinder to end Rachin Ravindra’s innings

However, cricket is often defined by moments of brilliance and this match was no exception. On the last ball of the 23rd over, Wanindu Hasaranga bowled a deceptive delivery that Ravindra tried to punch through the offside. The ball soared into the air, seemingly destined for safety. Yet in an incredible display of athleticism and timing, the Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka he launched himself into the air in cover and pulled off an incredible catch that left spectators in awe.

This spectacular dismissal not only brought Ravindra back to the pavilion but also swung the momentum strongly in Sri Lanka’s favour. At that point, it became clear that Ravindra’s potential threat of 79 runs had been neutralized, and Sri Lanka took this opportunity to step up the game.

Here is the video:

𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 catch to fire 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 player! ✨👌#SonySportsNetwork #NZvSL #GO pic.twitter.com/nQJfY3xtz6

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) January 8, 2025

Implications for both teams

As Ravindra walked away with disappointment etched on his face, his dismissal marked a turning point in the game. The loss of such a key player allowed Sri Lanka to regain their confidence and assert themselves more effectively on the field. Asalanka’s catch was not only due to the exclusion of one player; it symbolized Sri Lanka’s determination to fight back after their previous defeat.

New Zealand’s innings faltered after Ravindra’s departure, leading to a series of quick dismissals that eventually restricted them to a total that fell short of what they had hoped for. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will be chasing a target of 256 in 37 overs.

READ ALSO: Sri Lankan players who have scored a century in the T20I format with Kusal Perera