Injury-stricken Sri Lanka gained a morale boost ahead of the World Cup by beating the Black Caps by 34 runs in today’s last match of the seven-game one-day series.

Kumar Sangakkara made 113 not out and Tillakaratne Dilshan 81 in Sri Lanka’s 287-6 and debuting fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera took 2-60 as New Zealand was bowled out for 253 in reply.

New Zealand won the seven-match series 4-2 - one match was rained out - but Sri Lanka gained consolation and confidence from an improved performance.

The tourists won without ill captain Angelo Mathews, injured bowlers Jeevan Mendis and Suranga Lakmal and spinner Rangana Herath, who returned home because of a family illness.

The Black Caps were on the back foot from the beginning of their innings at the crease. Under fire opener Martin Guptill was out for his second royal duck of the series, gone on the first ball.

While Tom Latham was unable to capitalise on his opportunity to open with regular skipper Brendon McCullum rested for the match. Latham only made 6 during his time in the middle.

Kane Williamson and Corey Anderson both tried their hardest to put together some runs, however against a very upbeat Sri Lankan bowling attacking they were unable to push on from their good starts.

A confidence boost for the Black Caps will be the fight shown by the sides tailenders with Luke Ronchi, Daniel Vettori and Kyle Mills all doing their best to chase down the target.

The Black Caps will face Pakistan in Wellington on Saturday in the first of their two match series.