Sri Lanka boasts an impressive record at Pallekele. Despite already securing the series 2-0, New Zealand elected to bat first after winning the toss. Both sides made significant changes to their lineups. Sri Lanka aimed to test their bench strength, while New Zealand included debutant Zakary Foulkes, who impressed in the T20s, and seamer Adam Milne, who is playing his first match of the tour. Sri Lanka made five changes, with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, and Asitha Fernando all being dropped. In their place, Nishan Madushanka and Mohammad Shiraz were picked, while seam-bowling all-rounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe made his debut. Seamer Eshan Malinga, who performed well with the A team, and batter Lahiru Udara were included in the squad but did not make the final playing XI. Experienced and prolific batter Will Young got off to a fantastic start, scoring 56 runs off 68 balls, including eight boundaries. Henry Nicholls ably supported him with 46 runs, including four boundaries. Their partnership yielded 88 runs before rain interrupted the match. New Zealand is in a solid position at 112-1, with Mohammad Shiraz taking the only wicket of Tim Robinson. New Zealand still has experienced batsmen like Mark Chapman and Glenn Phillips waiting in the wings. This promises to be an exciting clash of cricket.
Sri Lanka Test Bench Strength Against New Zealand in Rain-Hit Pallekele Encounter
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