The 3rd match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 will see New Zealand take on Sri Lanka on June 1 (Saturday), of what will be the first match for both the teams in the multi-nation tournament. Both the teams are coming off good warm-up matches and would be itching to earn two points early in the tournament. As both NZ and SL begin their World Cup campaign, we bring you a list of mini-battles that will be exciting for the fans to see. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Match Preview: NZ Aim for Confident Start Against SL.

1. Martin Guptill vs Lasith Malinga

New Zealand’s Martin Guptill is a lethal force who can destroy the best of bowling attacks on any given day. He had a great 2015 World Cup campaign, and would be eyeing to one-up that performance. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Cricket Score 3rd ODI Match in ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.

On the other hand, is Sri Lankan veteran Lasith Malinga. The ‘Slinga-Malinga’ fame is one of the most senior players in the side. His battle with Guptill will be a sight for the fans as they clash during the powerplay with the new ball.

2. Trent Boult vs Angelo Mathews

Much of Sri Lanka’s chances will depend on how Angelo Mathews performs in the World Cup. Mathews is returning from an injury and would be eyeing a comeback of sorts as he begins his campaign in the World Cup.

On the other hand, Trent Boult is in terrific form. His bowling performances in the warm-up matches suggest that he’ll be one of the most feared bowlers in the 2019 WC. He’s leading the NZ’s bowling attack and Mathews is the mainstay of the Lankan batting line-up. How the duo sizzle on the pitch will be an interesting watch.

3. Dimuth Karunaratne vs Tim Southee

The Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne will have a point to prove as he begins his team’s World Cup campaign. Currently, in terrific form, he would be eyeing to begin the multi-nation tournament on a high.

Tim Southee is a seasoned campaigner and will use every trick in his bag to dismantle Sri Lankan top-order. How he takes on the in-form Lankan captain will be a treat to watch for the fans.

The NZ vs SL WC 2019 match will be played at the Sophia Gardens, in Cardiff on Saturday. Both Sri Lanka and New Zealand would be eyeing to get off a winning start as they square-off against each other on Saturday.

Clashing in a World Cup brings a different level of energy altogether. How the teams perform in their opening match, pretty much sets the tone for the rest of the tournament. For more updates on New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2019 ICC World Cup match, watch this space.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2019 07:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).