“Versatile Chapman Embraces His Role at No. 3 for Short-Term Impact”|

With the temporary No. 3 spot in the batting lineup during the series against Sri Lanka, Mark Chapman is taking full advantage of his chance while the Black Caps strive to win the series. The 30-year-old left-hander did particularly well himself, scoring 62 runs off 52 balls in Hamilton as he combined with Rachin Ravindra for an important 112-run stand.

New Zealand’s dominant 113-run win secured the series, setting the stage for a potential 3-0 sweep in today’s match in Auckland. Chapman, known for his flexibility in the batting order, expressed satisfaction with his current role. “I’m happy with how things are going personally,” Chapman said. “I feel like I’ve matured as a batter and have played various roles in the order.”

With captain Kane Williamson usually found at No 3, there should be much intrigue ahead of Wednesday’s Champions Trophy announcement. If he is selected at all, one would expect a place lower in the order that is likely for Chapman, albeit behind the Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips order. But Chapman remains undeterred by batting at No. 7. “I am happy just with game time,” he said, deferring to Williamson’s exceptional talents. “If you are stepping down for him, you’re making way for someone pretty special.”

Chapman emphasized staying focused on the present and the challenge against Sri Lanka, noting that despite their dominant performance in the series, they must not become complacent. “We lost the last T20 against Sri Lanka, and they put up an amazing performance, but we’re aiming for a sweep,” he added.

Chapman’s international career started with Hong Kong, in which he played two ODIs before committing himself to the Black Caps. This match in Auckland, today, should be an interesting contest as it will seal the series for New Zealand, given that the Kiwis are under the leadership of Mitchell Santner.

Black Caps Squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Tom Latham, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitch Hay, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke, Michael Bracewell.

Sri Lanka Squad: Charith Asalanka (c), Asitha Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Avishka Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Janith Liyanage, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dunith Wellalage, Chamidu Wickramasinghe.