NZ vs SL Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Insights, Key Players & Match Stats

The Sri Lanka Tour of New Zealand 2024 kicks off with an exciting T20I match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on December 28. If you're setting up your Dream11 Fantasy Team, you’ll need all the right insights, stats, and predictions. This article breaks down everything you need to know, from key player stats to the pitch report, so you can make informed decisions and build your Best Dream11 team today.

Key Match Details

  • Date: 28th December 2024
  • Time: 11:45 AM
  • Venue: Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
  • Pitch Report: Bay Oval is known for a balanced pitch, offering support to both batsmen and bowlers. In recent T20I matches, the average first innings score has been 153, with a lower average score of 133 in the second innings. The pitch tends to favor teams batting first, as 11 out of 17 teams batting first have won at this venue.

Recent Head-to-Head Record

NZ vs SL Dream11 Prediction Today Match 1st T20I Sri Lanka Tour of New Zealand 2024

Over the last 5 years, New Zealand has dominated the contests, winning 3 out of 5 T20Is against Sri Lanka. The match-up has been competitive, but New Zealand’s consistency, especially with players like Glenn Phillips and Tim Robinson, gives them an edge. Sri Lanka will look to fight back, with their own key players, such as Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka, eager to make an impact.

Probable Playing XI – New Zealand

  • Tim Robinson (Right-Handed Batsman) – A reliable opener, recently in good form with 35 runs in the last T20.
  • Rachin Ravindra (All-rounder) – Provides balance to the side, with recent performances showcasing both batting (scoring 44 in the last match) and bowling skills.
  • Mark Chapman (Batsman) – Known for his consistency in the middle order. Recently hit a crucial 38 in a pressure match.
  • Glenn Phillips (Right-Handed Batsman) – A top player with excellent hitting ability, boasting a strike rate of 140 in T20Is.
  • Daryl Mitchell (All-rounder) – A key all-rounder, with 1296 runs and 8 wickets in 67 T20I matches.
  • Michael Bracewell (All-rounder) – Contributes with both bat and ball, with 194 runs and 27 wickets in T20Is.
  • Mitchell Santner (Left-arm Orthodox Bowler) – One of the most effective T20 bowlers, boasting a career economy rate of 6.5.
  • Matt Henry (Right-arm Fast Bowler) – Strong in the powerplay, known for his ability to pick early wickets.

Probable Playing XI – Sri Lanka

  • Kusal Mendis (Batsman) – A key top-order batsman with explosive ability. He is coming off a strong performance, scoring 72 against India in the recent series.
  • Pathum Nissanka (Batsman) – Known for his solid technique and consistency, Nissanka will be crucial at the top.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga (All-rounder) – A mystery spinner with the ability to change the game with his spin, currently ranked among the top T20I all-rounders.
  • Charith Asalanka (Batsman) – A dependable middle-order player who can handle pressure, contributing with 500+ runs in 25 T20Is.
  • Dasun Shanaka (Captain, All-rounder) – The Sri Lankan captain is a key player, providing stability in both batting and bowling. He has scored over 800 T20I runs and picked 20 wickets.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

  • Top Batsmen to Pick:
  • Kusal Mendis and Glenn Phillips have been in great form and are expected to make big scores.
  • Mark Chapman also provides great value in the middle order.
  • Top All-rounders to Watch:
  • Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) is a must-pick with his all-around skills.
  • Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell (New Zealand) are solid choices with both bat and ball.
  • Top Bowlers:
  • Matt Henry is likely to dominate in the powerplay, while Mitchell Santner could be a game-changer in the middle overs.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga remains Sri Lanka’s best weapon with the ball.
  • Wicketkeeper:
  • Kusal Mendis is one of the top wicketkeepers to consider, with his batting form making him even more valuable.

Best Dream11 team Suggestions

Here’s an ideal Dream11 team based on player form and match-ups:

  • Captain: Glenn Phillips
  • Vice-Captain: Wanindu Hasaranga
  • Wicketkeeper: Kusal Mendis
  • Batsmen: Tim Robinson, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman
  • All-rounders: Daryl Mitchell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Michael Bracewell
  • Bowlers: Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson

Match Prediction: Who Will Win?

Based on recent form, New Zealand appears to have the upper hand, especially with their depth in both batting and bowling. However, Sri Lanka’s ability to surprise with key players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka makes this match unpredictable. It’s expected to be a thrilling contest, with New Zealand likely to emerge as the winners, but Sri Lanka will certainly make it a tough challenge.