Defending champions New Zealand are out of the running but will not want to roll over for Sri Lanka in a home series.
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka | First Test | Thursday 9 March – Monday 13 March 2023 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 00:00
To Win
New Zealand | Draw | Sri Lanka
*Betting tba
At the time of writing New Zealand had yet to formally name their Test squad but it is expected to be very similar to the one that shared the series with England.
However, if there are any surprise picks Chad Bowes and Sean Solia have been in the runs in the Plunket Shield.
Neil Wagner was the hero against England and his particular brand of quick bowling could really throw the Sri Lankans off their game.
New Zealand might consider an all-pace attack even if that means leaving out in-form Mitchell Santner.
Sri Lanka have enjoyed a resurgence in Test cricket which has given them hope of contesting their first World Test Championship final against Australia.
Their only win away from home during this period came against Bangladesh and their record in seam-friendly conditions is poor.
This tour has seen fast bowler Milan Rathnayake receive his first international call-up and he stands a good chance of debuting in Christchurch.
Lahiru Kumara has also been recalled to bolster their pace stocks.
Verdict: New Zealand
At home New Zealand will be tough to stop.
