New Zealand staged an incredible comeback to clinch the first T20I against Sri Lanka by eight runs at Mount Maunganui. Despite a dominant start by Sri Lanka, who were cruising at 121/0 in pursuit of 173, the visitors crumbled spectacularly to finish at 164/8.
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Jacob Duffy Sparks Collapse
The game took a dramatic turn in the 14th over when Jacob Duffy delivered a game-changing spell. Sri Lanka’s opening pair of Pathum Nissanka (90) and Kusal Mendis (46) looked set to seal the game, but Duffy’s three-wicket over shattered their momentum.
- Key Dismissals:
- Kusal Mendis gloved a pull to the wicketkeeper.
- Kusal Perera and Kamindu Mendis were dismissed off consecutive balls, both without scoring.
Duffy’s figures of 4-0-21-3 left Sri Lanka reeling and opened the door for New Zealand to mount a comeback.
Late Drama and Stunning Fielding Efforts
Sri Lanka still had a chance, needing just 29 runs off the last three overs with seven wickets in hand. However, the following moments sealed the game for New Zealand:
- Zakary Foulkes’ Breakthroughs:
- Charith Asalanka’s dismissal for a short pull to deep square leg.
- Maheesh Theekshana caught and Wanindu Hasaranga run out in the final over.
- Tim Robinson’s Stunning Catch: Robinson’s acrobatic effort at deep point dismissed the dangerous Nissanka, who was anchoring the chase.
- Matt Henry’s Crucial Strike: Henry bowled Bhanuka Rajapaksa to further dent Sri Lanka’s chances.
New Zealand’s Batting Rescue Act
Earlier, New Zealand posted a challenging total of 172/8, thanks to a remarkable partnership between Daryl Mitchell (62) and Michael Bracewell (59 off 33). The duo rescued the hosts from 65/5 in 10 overs with a 110-run stand in just 58 balls.
Sri Lankan Bowling Highlights:
- Binura Fernando impressed with 2-22.
- Maheesh Theekshana contributed with figures of 2-29.
Brief Scores
New Zealand: 172/8 in 20 overs
- Top scorers: Daryl Mitchell (62), Michael Bracewell (59)
- Best bowlers: Binura Fernando (2-22), Maheesh Theekshana (2-29)
Sri Lanka: 164/8 in 20 overs
- Top scorers: Pathum Nissanka (90), Kusal Mendis (46)
- Best bowlers: Jacob Duffy (3-21), Matt Henry (2-28)
Match Summary
New Zealand’s remarkable fightback, led by Jacob Duffy and a spirited fielding effort, handed them a thrilling eight-run victory. The win gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the series and sets the stage for an exciting contest in the remaining games.
New Zealand staged an incredible comeback to clinch the first T20I against Sri Lanka by eight runs at Mount Maunganui. Despite a dominant start by Sri Lanka, who were cruising at 121/0 in pursuit of 173, the visitors crumbled spectacularly to finish at 164/8.
Jacob Duffy Sparks Collapse
The game took a dramatic turn in the 14th over when Jacob Duffy delivered a game-changing spell. Sri Lanka’s opening pair of Pathum Nissanka (90) and Kusal Mendis (46) looked set to seal the game, but Duffy’s three-wicket over shattered their momentum.
- Key Dismissals:
- Kusal Mendis gloved a pull to the wicketkeeper.
- Kusal Perera and Kamindu Mendis were dismissed off consecutive balls, both without scoring.
Duffy’s figures of 4-0-21-3 left Sri Lanka reeling and opened the door for New Zealand to mount a comeback.
Late Drama and Stunning Fielding Efforts
Sri Lanka still had a chance, needing just 29 runs off the last three overs with seven wickets in hand. However, the following moments sealed the game for New Zealand:
- Zakary Foulkes’ Breakthroughs:
- Charith Asalanka’s dismissal for a short pull to deep square leg.
- Maheesh Theekshana caught and Wanindu Hasaranga run out in the final over.
- Tim Robinson’s Stunning Catch: Robinson’s acrobatic effort at deep point dismissed the dangerous Nissanka, who was anchoring the chase.
- Matt Henry’s Crucial Strike: Henry bowled Bhanuka Rajapaksa to further dent Sri Lanka’s chances.
New Zealand’s Batting Rescue Act
Earlier, New Zealand posted a challenging total of 172/8, thanks to a remarkable partnership between Daryl Mitchell (62) and Michael Bracewell (59 off 33). The duo rescued the hosts from 65/5 in 10 overs with a 110-run stand in just 58 balls.
Sri Lankan Bowling Highlights:
- Binura Fernando impressed with 2-22.
- Maheesh Theekshana contributed with figures of 2-29.
Brief Scores
New Zealand: 172/8 in 20 overs
- Top scorers: Daryl Mitchell (62), Michael Bracewell (59)
- Best bowlers: Binura Fernando (2-22), Maheesh Theekshana (2-29)
Sri Lanka: 164/8 in 20 overs
- Top scorers: Pathum Nissanka (90), Kusal Mendis (46)
- Best bowlers: Jacob Duffy (3-21), Matt Henry (2-28)
Match Summary
New Zealand’s remarkable fightback, led by Jacob Duffy and a spirited fielding effort, handed them a thrilling eight-run victory. The win gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the series and sets the stage for an exciting contest in the remaining games.