Nathan Smith created a remarkable highlight during New Zealand's second ODI against Sri Lanka at Seddon Park, Hamilton, by executing an extraordinary diving catch at the deep-third boundary to dismiss Eshan Malinga. This impressive feat occurred on the last delivery of the 29th over, with Sri Lanka struggling at 136/8 while pursuing a revised target of 256 under the DLS method.

Smith's remarkable agility contributed to a decisive 113-run victory for the Kiwis, granting them a substantial 2-0 advantage in the ongoing ODI series.

The catch unfolded as William O’Rourke bowled a well-placed delivery on middle and off. Malinga, attempting to hit across the line after creating space, miscalculated the ball's speed. The ball soared off the top edge, arching over the wicketkeeper, allowing Smith to propel himself into a full dive.

Positioned slightly square of the field, Smith had to traverse a considerable distance to get into position beneath the ball, and with a final soaring leap, he snatched the ball from the air, parallel to the ground, effectively sending Malinga back to the pavilion.

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The Sri Lankan innings encountered difficulties early on, as the top three batsmen were dismissed in quick succession. Kamindu Mendis emerged as the sole player to provide significant resistance, scoring a commendable 64 runs off 66 deliveries.

Smith also played a crucial role with the ball, dismissing Janith Liyanage, the second-highest run-scorer, for 22 runs. The New Zealand bowlers, spearheaded by O’Rourke, maintained relentless pressure, achieving regular breakthroughs as Sri Lanka's batting lineup faltered.

For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman established a solid foundation with a partnership of 112 runs for the second wicket, with both players reaching half-centuries. Despite a collapse in the middle order following Chapman’s exit, they managed to set a competitive total of 255 for 7, which ultimately proved too challenging for the Sri Lankan side.

Following the victory, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team's performance, highlighting the difficult conditions that favoured their seam bowlers. "The bounce our bowlers achieved has been quite challenging," Santner remarked. "It was good game time for the players." With this win, New Zealand has secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, leaving Sri Lanka with much to contemplate ahead of the third ODI.

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