In the last Twenty20 International of their current three-match series, New Zealand will play Sri Lanka at home on Thursday at Saxton Oval in Nelson, New Zealand.
Mitchell Santner has led New Zealand to two consecutive victories over a formidable Sri Lankan team, demonstrating remarkable tenacity. The Kiwis will be keen to win for the third straight game to clinch a clean sweep after already securing an insurmountable lead.
However, after losing both of their opening games, Sri Lanka will be unhappy with their current performance. They lost by just eight runs in the first game, and in the second game at Bay Oval, Jacob Duffy once again outplayed them.
Saxton Oval Pitch Report
The Saxton Oval in Nelson has hosted two men’s T20Is, with an average run rate of 8.52, reflecting a decent batting environment. On three of the four occasions, teams have surpassed the 165-run mark, suggesting the pitch has traditionally favored batting.
However, since it has been five years since the last men’s T20I at this venue, a fresh pitch could offer some seam movement and extra bounce, benefiting fast bowlers. Nonetheless, we expect the conditions to provide a balanced contest, with both batters and seam bowlers playing key roles.
It’s also worth noting that teams batting first have had more success at Saxton Oval, winning both men’s T20Is. But if the pitch is freshly prepared, the team winning the toss might opt to bowl first.
Saxton Oval Stats in T20I
| Total Matches | 8 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 6 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 2 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 138 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 126 |
| Highest Total Recorded | 187/7 (20 overs) by NZ vs WI |
| Lowest Total Recorded | 104/10 (20 overs) by PAKW vs NZW |
| Highest Score Chased | 123/6 (19.4 overs) by AUSW vs NZW |
| Lowest Score Defended | 114/7 (20 overs) by NZW vs SLW |
