Sri Lanka beats in Final T20 Match Against New Zealand

Sri Lanka claimed a thrilling seven-run victory over New Zealand in the third and final T20 match of the series. Despite the win, New Zealand clinched the series 2-1, having secured victories in the first two matches.

• Sri Lanka set a commanding total of 218-5, their second-highest T20 score.
• Kusal Perera scored a blistering century, the fastest in Sri Lanka’s T20 history.
• New Zealand fell short, managing 211-7 in a valiant chase.

Kusal Perera’s Record-Breaking Century

Kusal Perera delivered a stunning batting performance. His 101 runs off just 46 balls, including 13 fours and four sixes, electrified the crowd.

• Perera’s century came off only 44 balls, the fastest by a Sri Lankan in T20 Internationals.
• He partnered with captain Charith Asalanka for a century stand, propelling Sri Lanka’s innings.
• Their partnership yielded 75 runs in the crucial overs between the 14th and 18th, ensuring a daunting target for New Zealand.

This aggressive approach helped Sri Lanka bat first for the first time in the series and set a tone for their victory.

New Zealand’s Determined Response

The Black Caps began their chase strongly, reaching 60-0 during the power play. Rachin Ravindra led the effort with an impressive 69 runs off 39 balls.

• Ravindra’s dismissal by Asalanka slowed the momentum.
• Mark Chapman and Glenn Phillips were also dismissed quickly, further stalling New Zealand’s run rate.
• Daryl Mitchell reignited hope with a flurry of four sixes in one over.

Despite a spirited attempt, New Zealand required an improbable 22 runs in the final over and fell short.

Charith Asalanka’s All-Round Brilliance

Charith Asalanka played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s win. As captain, he made key decisions and contributed with both bat and ball.

• Asalanka’s figures of 3-25 included dismissing three key batters.
• He also took a spectacular diving catch to remove Michael Bracewell, turning the match in Sri Lanka’s favor.
• His tactical bowling changes proved decisive in the final overs.

Asalanka expressed his satisfaction, saying, “Finally, we got a win. I hope this is a momentum shift for us.”

Critical Moments That Decided the Match

Sri Lanka’s victory was defined by key turning points:

• Bowling by Wanindu Hasaranga: Dismissing Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Hay in the 16th over tipped the match in Sri Lanka’s favor.
• Binura Fernando’s Last Over: Despite the pressure, Fernando held his nerve, conceding only nine runs in the final three balls.
• Wet Outfield Delay: The 30-minute delayed start didn’t deter Sri Lanka, who adapted quickly to the conditions.

Upcoming ODI Series

The teams now prepare for the three-match ODI series, starting in Wellington on Sunday. Both sides will look to build momentum in this format.

Sri Lanka will aim to carry the confidence from their T20 win, while New Zealand will seek to bounce back and dominate the ODIs.

Top Performers to Watch:

• Kusal Perera: Can he continue his scintillating form?
• Rachin Ravindra: His consistent performances make him a key player for New Zealand.
• Wanindu Hasaranga: His bowling will be vital in containing New Zealand’s strong batting lineup.

Match Summary Table