New Zealand need bowlers

Rain may have defined the cricket so far, yet, with two games to go, the series is placed as expected. New Zealand's batsmen have battled to good scores in both competed matches, but the visitors find themselves on the brink of a series defeat once more. That they have fielded second twice - once by their own election - has hampered their bowlers, who have had to contend with a wet ball.

New Zealand have also spoken of a "top heavy" Sri Lanka batting order, but they are yet to dismiss all three of Sri Lanka's old hands in an innings, and as Angelo Mathews proved with a sparkling 47-ball 54 not out, the middle order is by no means a cakewalk either. The visitors would do well not to jettison the conservative batting strategy that has seen them post competitive totals, but the bowlers must exploit the movement afforded them by the damp conditions to incite the top order collapse they have been aiming for.

Sri Lanka meanwhile, have little to change about their game. Lasith Malinga's return to form has ensured New Zealand's totals remain manageable despite the new rules that have disadvantaged the spinners, while the batting is yet to be put under serious pressure. They will however be missing their match-winner from the second ODI, as Tillakaratne Dilshan has been ruled out by a back complaint. Sri Lanka will believe they have enough depth nonetheless, but Dilshan's exit does leave the top order with considerably less firepower.

Form guide

Sri Lanka: WWLLL(Completed matches, most recent first)
New Zealand: LLLLW