New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Preview: Team News & Prediction | 1st One-Day International

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

New Zealand were victorious by two games to one over Sri Lanka in the T20i series and now aim to triumph in the ODIs.

Date/Time: Saturday January 4th 2025: USA PT – 2:00pm / USA ET – 5:00pm / UK – 10:00pm

Venue: Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington, New Zealand

Weather: Strong winds and potential sporadic showers could make conditions very difficult for both teams.

How To Watch On TV: UK – TNT Sports / US – Willow TV 

How To Watch Online: UK – discovery+ / US – Willow TV

New Zealand Betting Analysis

The ODIs provide an opportunity for Daryl Mitchell of the hosts. Mitchell would really benefit from a big individual and certainly boasts the quality to achieve it here. With that in mind, consider utilising the ‘Team - Top Batter’ market and investment a stake in Mitchell to top score for the Black Caps across this first ODI.

Sri Lanka Betting Analysis

Batting all-rounder Charith Asalanka captains this Sri Lankan and is another player who could be key to the outcome of the results in this encounter. Asalanka has the ability to build an innings and whether Sri Lanka are setting or chasing a target, backing Asalanka to record 20+ runs looks like a sound option for bettors.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Expert Prediction

New Zealand should be able to keep a lid on Sri Lanka with the ball and provided they don’t suffer any undue batting collapse then the hosts are likely to take the lead in this series. Their players are well suited to ODI cricket and as was the case in the T20i games, Sri Lanka could start the series slowly.

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Tip: New Zealand to win