The stage is set for the third ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Eden Park, Auckland, on January 11. With New Zealand leading the series 2-0, Sri Lanka will be desperate to avoid a whitewash and end the series on a positive note.
Despite showing glimpses of promise, the Sri Lankan team has struggled to capitalize on key moments, leaving them on the brink of a disappointing series loss. In the first ODI, they managed only 178 runs, which New Zealand comfortably chased down with 9 wickets in hand. The second match saw a tighter contest, with New Zealand posting 255 runs, but Sri Lanka fell short in the chase, losing another opportunity to secure a win.
The upcoming game at Eden Park presents Sri Lanka with a chance to regain some pride. Ahead of the clash, let’s delve into the pitch conditions and their potential impact on the match.
Eden Park pitch report
Eden Park is known as a bowler’s nightmare, primarily due to its small boundaries, with the square region just 65 meters and the straight boundaries slightly over 55 meters. The short boundaries favor batsmen, who often target the V region or the front area. The pitch offers spongy bounce, benefiting batters who play on top of it. Bowlers who rely on hard lengths are more successful, as slower balls don’t tend to work here. Bowling first is often advantageous, as teams have a target to chase in this high-scoring venue. Hence, the captain winning the toss should opt to bowl first.
Eden Park Stats in ODI
| Total Matches | 85 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 33 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 47 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 221 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 195 |
| Highest Total Recorded | 340/5 (48.4 Ovs) By NZ vs AUS |
| Lowest Total Recorded | 73/10 (26.3 Ovs) By NZ vs SL |
| Highest Score Chased | 340/5 (48.4 Ovs) By NZ vs AUS |
| Lowest Score Defended | 153/10 (39.5 Ovs) By NZ vs ENG |
Editor's Pick
Cricket
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Hardik Pandya & Arshdeep Singh in focus as Vijay Hazare quarters begin before IND vs ENG
Top Stories
