Kusal Mendis’ unbeaten 74 guided Sri Lanka to a three-wicket victory over New Zealand in a rain-hit second ODI, clinching the series 2-0 with six balls to spare under the DLS method. 

The win at Pallekele marked Sri Lanka's fifth home ODI series triumph in 2024, following victories over Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, India, and West Indies. Despite missing qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy after finishing ninth in the 2023 World Cup, Sri Lanka has shown remarkable consistency, losing just one ODI series in Bangladesh this year.  The game, reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain, saw New Zealand bowled out for 209 in 45.1 overs. Sri Lanka, chasing 210, recovered from 163-7 thanks to Mendis’ patient 102-ball innings and Maheesh Theekshana’s crucial 27*. Michael Bracewell's impressive 4-36 kept New Zealand in contention, but Sri Lanka sealed the win, continuing their strong home form.