Kusal Perera delivered a stunning performance, smashing a blistering 46-ball century to guide Sri Lanka to a thrilling seven-run win over New Zealand in the final T20 match of the series in Nelson. Despite losing the series, Sri Lanka showed resilience and ended on a high note, thanks to Perera’s explosive innings, which became the fastest T20 international century by a Sri Lankan.
Perera’s Heroics Light Up Nelson
Sri Lanka posted an imposing total of 218-5 in their 20 overs, with Perera at the center of the action. His career-best 101 featured 13 fours and four sixes, demonstrating his ability to dominate the New Zealand bowlers. Perera was given lifelines at scores of 15 and 60, but he made the most of them, showcasing his aggressive intent from the start.
Reflecting on his innings, Perera said, “The first ball I faced was a wake-up call. I had to trust my instincts and execute my game. The coach emphasized finishing strong, and I aimed to do just that.”
Perera was well-supported by skipper Charith Asalanka, who played a fiery knock of 46 runs off just 24 balls, including five sixes. Together, the duo added 100 runs for the third wicket, laying a solid foundation for Sri Lanka’s total.
Exceptional Fielding and Key Moments
New Zealand’s fielding brilliance was on display when wicketkeeper Mitch Hay pulled off an extraordinary catch to dismiss Pathum Nissanka. Sprinting back to the boundary, Hay managed to toss the ball in the air while stepping over the rope before completing the catch inside the field. This effort temporarily slowed Sri Lanka’s momentum, but Perera and Asalanka rebuilt strongly.
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New Zealand’s Chase Falls Short
Chasing 219, New Zealand maintained the required run rate for most of the innings. Rachin Ravindra led the charge with an impressive 69 off 39 balls, supported by Tim Robinson (37 off 21) and Daryl Mitchell (35 off 17). Mitchell’s late onslaught, including four sixes in the final over, brought New Zealand close, but they ultimately fell short at 211-7.
Asalanka, contributing with both bat and ball, emerged as Sri Lanka’s hero in the bowling department. The part-time bowler picked up three crucial wickets, finishing with figures of 3-50. His early spell of 3-25 was instrumental in stalling New Zealand’s middle order.
Sri Lanka Ends on a High
After losing the first two games of the series, Sri Lanka’s captain, Charith Asalanka, expressed relief and pride in his team’s performance. “We knew we had the capability to beat New Zealand. Although we played good cricket throughout the series, we couldn’t manage a win until today,” he said.
This victory not only showcased Sri Lanka’s potential but also set the stage for the upcoming ODI series between the two teams, starting Sunday in Wellington. With renewed confidence, Sri Lanka will look to build on this success and carry momentum into the next format.
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