Sri Lanka Beat New Zealand by 4 Wickets in Dambulla, Lead T20 Series 1-0

Sri Lanka secured a thrilling 4-wicket win over New Zealand in the first T20I of the series at the Dambulla International Stadium. With this victory, the Lankans take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20 series. New Zealand were bowled out for just 135 runs in 19.3 overs, and Sri Lanka chased down the target with one over to spare, losing 6 wickets in the process.

New Zealand Struggles with the Bat

New Zealand won the toss and opted to bat first. However, their innings got off to a poor start, losing their first wicket with just 16 runs on the board when Tim Robinson was dismissed. Mark Chapman followed shortly, departing for just 1 run off Nuwan Thushara’s bowling. At the end of the powerplay, New Zealand managed only 31 runs, losing two early wickets.

Sri Lankan bowlers kept the pressure on, restricting the Kiwis to very few scoring opportunities. Michael Bracewell, who had shown some promise, was dismissed for 27 runs off 24 balls, leaving New Zealand struggling at 59/5.

In the lower order, Jakary Falkes played a brief cameo, scoring 27 runs off 16 balls, but his efforts were not enough to prevent New Zealand from being bowled out for just 135 runs.

Sri Lanka's Clinical Bowling Attack

Dunith Wellalage was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking 3 wickets. Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Matheesa Pathirana each claimed 2 wickets apiece, ensuring New Zealand had no chance of a big total.

Sri Lanka's Chase: Nervy but Successful

Chasing 136, Sri Lanka faced an early setback as opener Kusal Mendis was dismissed for a duck. However, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera steadied the ship, putting together a solid partnership of 49 runs. But Nissanka’s dismissal for 19 brought Sri Lanka to 49/2.

Kamindu Mendis contributed with a quick 16-ball 23 runs, keeping the chase on track. The real anchor for Sri Lanka was captain Charith Asalanka. His responsible knock of 35 runs off 28 balls, which included 1 four and 2 sixes, guided Sri Lanka closer to their target.

In a nervy finish, Asalanka remained unbeaten, and with the help of Dunith Wellalage, who hit a crucial six off Daryl Mitchell, Sri Lanka crossed the line with one ball to spare.

New Zealand's Bowling Effort

Jakary Falkes was the standout bowler for New Zealand, taking 3 wickets. Despite his efforts, the Kiwis could not defend their low total.

Player of the Match: Charith Asalanka

Charith Asalanka was named the Player of the Match for his match-winning knock, which played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s successful chase.