Charith Asalanka said that the high possibility of dew in the evening played a role in the decision to chase, while Mitchell Santner said New Zealand were undecided on whether they would have bowled first as well but was happy to take first lease of a good batting track.

Kusal Mendis hit a gritty 74 not out as Sri Lanka posted a thrilling three-wicket win against New Zealand to clinch the three-match one-day international series on Sunday.

Sri Lanka has decided to rest star batsman Kusal Mendis and three other players for the final ODI against New Zealand. Despite holding an unassailable 2-0 lead, the hosts aim for a clean sweep in Pallekele.