Kusal Perera delivered an electrifying performance, smashing Sri Lanka’s fastest T20I century off just 44 balls during the third and final T20I against New Zealand in Nelson. His career-best 101 off 46 balls not only secured a thrilling seven-run victory for Sri Lanka but also broke Kusal Mendis’ record for the most 50-plus scores in T20Is by a Sri Lankan.
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Perera’s Record-Breaking Knock
Perera, dropped twice during his innings, capitalized on his luck to hit four sixes and 13 fours. This explosive innings marked his 16th 50-plus score in T20Is, surpassing Mendis’ record. His effort propelled Sri Lanka to a daunting total of 218-5, setting the stage for a consolation win after losing the first two games of the series.
“It was a wake-up call, so I had to back myself and play my natural game,” said Perera. “The coach stressed the importance of finishing games, so I focused on doing my best.”
Key Partnerships and Contributions
Opening the batting, Perera added 41 runs with Avishka Fernando (17) before forging a crucial 100-run stand with captain Charith Asalanka. Asalanka’s aggressive 46 off 24 balls, featuring five sixes, complemented Perera’s brilliance and kept the pressure on the New Zealand bowlers.
Kusal Perera Smashes Sri Lanka’s Fastest T20I Century, Breaks Records in Thrilling Win Against New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Chase Falls Short
Chasing 219, New Zealand put up a valiant effort but fell short, finishing at 211-7. Rachin Ravindra led the charge with a blistering 69 off 39 balls, while Tim Robinson (37 off 21) and Daryl Mitchell (35 off 17) provided strong support. However, Sri Lanka’s part-time bowler Charith Asalanka turned the tide with figures of 3-50, including a tight final over that sealed the win.
Fielding Brilliance
A spectacular boundary catch by New Zealand’s Mitchell Hay to dismiss Pathum Nissanka was a highlight of the game. Sprinting to the boundary, Hay juggled the ball mid-air to complete the dismissal within the field of play, showcasing exceptional athleticism.
Asalanka Reflects on the Win
Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka expressed pride in his team’s resilience. “It’s a good win for us. Despite the losses in the first two games, we always believed we could beat New Zealand, and we finally did it,” he said.
What’s Next
With this win, Sri Lanka heads into the ODI series against New Zealand with renewed confidence. The first ODI is set to take place in Wellington on Sunday. Both teams will look to build momentum as they gear up for future international fixtures.
