Dambulla : New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 5 runs at Rangiri Stadium, Dambulla in a last over low scoring thriller. Lockie Ferguson and Glenn Phillips 3-fers helped New Zealand level the 2 match T20I series against Sri Lanka 1-1.
Defending 109 runs, New Zealand took regular Sri Lankan wickets from one end as well as stopped the run flow. However, Pathum Nissanka (52) played brilliantly from other end.
Likes of Lockie Ferguson (3/7) and Michael Bracewell (2/23) destroyed Sri Lankan middle order. Ferguson bagged hattrick dismissing Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis & Charith Asalanka.
The show came to the last over where 8 runs were required and Phillips got the Ball in hand. Phillips took 3 wickets in the over including that of Nissanka, conceding only 2 runs in the 20th over, as Sri Lanka were bundled for 103 runs. Kiwis won by 5 runs and levelling the series 1-1.
In 1st innings, Sri Lankan bowlers with likes of Wanindu Hasaranga (4/17), Matheesha Pathirana (3/11) bundled up New Zealand for 108 runs.
Ferguson was adjourned the man of the match and Hasaranga the man of the series.
Brief Scorecard :
1st Innings :
Nz : 108 (19.3)
Will Young : 30 (32)
Sl :
Wanindu Hasaranga : 4/17
Matheesha Pathirana : 3/11
2nd Innings :
Sl : 103 (19.5)
Pathum Nissanka : 52 (51)
Nz :
Glenn Phillips : 3/6
Lockie Ferguson : 3/7
Result : New Zealand win by 5 Runs.
