Sri Lanka triumphed in a thrilling encounter, securing a remarkable seven-run victory over New Zealand to claim their first win in the country since 2006 at Saxton Oval here on Thursday.Despite posting a modest 218 in their first innings, Sri Lanka held their nerve against a late surge by the Black Caps, marking a historic moment in the cricketing world.
The vice story was largely thanks to Kusal Perera's explosive knock, as he struck a blistering 100 runs from just 44 balls, making it the fastest T20I century by a Sri Lankan.Perera's innings featured 13 fours and four sixes, with one stunning six over cover sealing his remarkable century. His fireworks helped Sri Lanka recover after a sluggish start, with their final 10 overs yielding an impressive 133 runs.
Charith Asalanka was another standout, contributing both with the bat and ball. His 46 runs helped propel Sri Lanka to their competitive total, and his three wickets in the middle overs were crucial in stalling New Zealand’s chase.Asalanka’s sharp fielding, including a sensational catch at extra cover, further cemented his role as a match-winner.
Despite Sri Lanka’s solid foundations, New Zealand almost pulled off a miraculous chase, thanks to Daryl Mitchell’s explosive batting. Mitchell struck a remarkable 25-run over, including four consecutive sixes, reducing the target to a manageable 51 from 30 balls.
However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers remained calm under pressure, with Wanindu Hasaranga’s crucial two-wicket over and the timely dismissal of Mitchell in the 17th over turning the tide back in their favour.
Rachin Ravindra, another key figure in New Zealand's chase, provided resistance with a gritty knock. His contributions in the middle overs helped New Zealand keep their hopes alive, but his dismissal by Asalanka, who continued his brilliant all-round performance, was a turning point. Ravindra’s efforts, although commendable, were not enough to carry his team over the line.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers struck early, dismissing three of New Zealand’s top four batsmen within the first 10 overs. Both openers fell during the powerplay, leaving the hosts on the back foot early in the chase.
Despite a late flurry from Zachary Foulkes, who kept New Zealand’s hopes alive with powerful hitting in the final overs, Sri Lanka’s bowlers held their composure to defend their total. Foulkes’ efforts were valiant, but the target proved just out of reach.
While New Zealand fell short in this match, Jacob Duffy was awarded Player of the Series for his consistency throughout the series. With an economy rate of 7.50, Duffy’s tight bowling in the early overs played a key role in keeping the pressure on Sri Lanka, despite only picking up one wicket in the final match.This win gives Sri Lanka a major boost, both in terms of morale and their standing in international cricket, as they continue to develop their young, dynamic team. (UNI)
Scores:Sri Lanka 218 for 5 (Perera 101, Asalanka 46) beat New Zealand 211 for 7 (Ravindra 69, Asalanka 3-50, Hasaranga 2-38) by 7 runs
