Maheesh Theekshana takes a hat-trick across two overs in NZ vs SL 2025 2nd ODI [Watch]

Sri Lanka and Rajasthan Royal's spinner Maheesh Theekshana picked up a hat-trick across two overs in the second ODI against New Zealand on Wednesday (January 8). The second of the three ODI games between the two sides is being played at Seddon Park, Hamilton.

Maheesh Theekshana was brought into the playing 11 for the second match, with the spinner replacing Lahiru Kumara. The match was reduced to 37 overs a side due to rain, with the spinner playing a key role for the visitors, picking up the wicket of Mark Chapman (62 off 52) in the 20th over.

Theekshana came back into the attack to bowl the seventh over of his spell. Up against Mitchell Santner, Daryl Mitchell, and Nathan Smith, the spinner conceded seven runs and picked up the wickets of Santner (20 off 15) and Nathan Smith (0 off 1) on the last two balls of the 35th over.

The 24-year-old was brought in to bowl the last over of innings and struck off the very first delivery, having Matt Henry (1 off 3) caught in the deep, thus completing his hat-trick.

Take a look at the video of the hattrick below:

Theekshana became the seventh bowler from Sri Lanka to pick up a hat-trick in an ODI. Previously, Lasith Malinga, Chaminda Vaas, Dilshan Madushanka, Thisara Perera, Farvez Maharoof, and Wanindu Hasarangaand have picked up hat-tricks in the format for the Lankan Lions.

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New Zealand score 255/9 in their first innings in the NZ vs SL 2025 2nd ODI

After being asked to bat first under lights, New Zealand scored 255/9 in their 37 overs, with the match being shortened due to rain. Rachin Ravindra (79 off 63) and Mark Chapman scored half-centuries for the Black Caps. Maheesh Theekshana (4/44) and Wanindu Hasaranga (2/39) were the highest wicket-takers for Sri Lanka.

At the time of writing, Sri Lanka 4/23 in seven overs. They are trailing 0-1 in the three-match ODI series.