PALLEKELE, Sri Lanka — The hopes of New Zealand claiming a consolation victory against Sri Lanka were thwarted when rain disrupted play, resulting in the third and final one-day international being abandoned on Tuesday.

With this outcome, Sri Lanka secured its fifth ODI series victory on home soil this year, having already triumphed in the first two matches, both of which were affected by rain.

New Zealand started positively, reaching 112 for 1 in just 21 overs. Will Young was on his way to a solid half-century, contributing an unbeaten 56 runs, while Henry Nicholls also made a commendable effort with 46 runs not out. The duo formed a promising partnership, adding 88 runs for the second wicket from 106 deliveries.

During the match, Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka showcased his athleticism with a sensational catch at mid-off, dismissing Tim Robinson for 9 runs in the fourth over.

Unfortunately, the rain meant that Sri Lanka could not fully utilize its bench strength, as they made five changes to the lineup. Chamindu Wickramasinghe made his ODI debut but could only bowl two overs, conceding 14 runs.

New Zealand also made notable changes, bringing in fast bowlers Zakary Foulkes, who made his ODI debut, and Adam Milne, replacing Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy. Milne stepped in for Lockie Ferguson, who had returned home due to a calf injury sustained during the previous Twenty20 series in Dambulla.

This series served as valuable preparation for New Zealand as they gear up for next year’s Champions Trophy, a tournament Sri Lanka will miss after finishing ninth in the last World Cup held in India.