Sri Lanka’s Strong Start
Sri Lanka’s run chase began on a positive note with openers Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka dominating the early overs. The pair put on a scintillating 121-run partnership, with Mendis scoring 46 and Nissanka bringing up a well-crafted 50. The two batters found the boundary with ease, taking the game away from New Zealand as they reached 121 for no loss.
Jacob Duffy’s Key Breakthroughs
The game turned in the 14th over when Jacob Duffy struck twice in successive deliveries, removing Kusal Perera and Kamindu Mendis for ducks. He followed up by getting Kusal Mendis caught behind, finishing with impressive figures of 3/21.
Sri Lanka’s Middle-Order Collapse
Sri Lanka’s Chase Falters in Final Overs
Despite needing 29 runs from the last three overs with seven wickets in hand, Sri Lanka’s chase began to crumble.
Zakary Foulkes Strikes Again
Foulkes dismissed Charith Asalanka off a short delivery, caught at deep square leg, further tightening New Zealand’s grip.
Rajapaksa Survives LBW, Then Falls
Bhanuka Rajapaksa survived an LBW decision via DRS but was dismissed soon after, ending the 18th over with two boundaries.
Nissanka’s Struggle to Anchor the Chase
With Sri Lanka’s middle order falling apart, Nissanka (90) found it difficult to keep the chase alive.
Key Wickets Seal the Victory
Tim Robinson took a stunning catch to dismiss Nissanka, and Matt Henry removed Rajapaksa. Foulkes then took two more wickets, securing the win for New Zealand.
Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell’s Rescue Act
Early Struggles for New Zealand
New Zealand found themselves in a tough spot at 65/5 after losing early wickets.
Daryl Mitchell Leads the Recovery
Daryl Mitchell anchored the innings with a vital 62, stabilizing New Zealand’s total.
Bracewell’s Explosive 59
Michael Bracewell added 59 off 33 balls, playing a key role in the recovery.
Partnership Turns the Game
Mitchell and Bracewell combined for a crucial 110-run stand for the sixth wicket.
New Zealand Sets a Competitive Total
Their efforts propelled New Zealand to 172/8 in 20 overs, a total that proved to be enough.
Match Summary
| Team | Score | Top Scorer | Best Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 172/8 in 20 overs | Daryl Mitchell 62 | Jacob Duffy 3/21 |
| Sri Lanka | 164/8 in 20 overs | Pathum Nissanka 90 | Maheesh Theekshana 2/29 |
Result:
New Zealand won by 8 runs.
New Zealand takes a 1-0 series lead after a thrilling finish.
