New Zealand vs Sri Lanka: Another Thrilling Match in Cricket History
In a nail-biting encounter, New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by just 5 runs in a thrilling match. Nissanka’s brilliant fifty couldn’t save Sri Lanka, as Ferguson’s hat-trick and Phillips’ last-over heroics played a key role in New Zealand’s victory.
NZ vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20 Match: Ferguson’s Hat-trick
The crucial match, held in Dambulla (Sri Lanka), saw Sri Lanka win the toss and opt to bowl first. Sri Lankan bowlers put on an excellent display, dismissing New Zealand’s entire team for just 108 runs. Wanindu Hasaranga’s outstanding bowling sent 4 New Zealand players back to the pavilion. Matheesha Pathirana claimed 3 wickets, as New Zealand struggled to build a strong total. Only 3 players from New Zealand managed to reach double figures, with Will Young scoring 30 and Josh Clarkson adding 24 runs.
When Sri Lanka came out to chase, their batting line-up struggled against New Zealand’s strong bowling attack. Despite a brilliant fifty from Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka could only manage 103 runs. New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson played a pivotal role with his lightning-fast and superb bowling, taking a hat-trick in the process.
Turning Points of the Thriller
The match took another thrilling turn when Glenn Phillips made the final over an unforgettable one. Needing 8 runs from the last 6 balls, Phillips bowled a remarkable over, taking 3 wickets for just 2 runs. His performance sealed New Zealand’s victory and tied the series 1-1
Player of the Match & Player of the Series
Lockie Ferguson was awarded the Man of the Match for his brilliant performance, especially his hat-trick at a crucial stage of the game. Wanindu Hasaranga was named the Player of the Series, having taken 6 wickets and scored 25 runs in the series.
Scorecard
New Zealand Team
Sri Lanka Team
| Tim Robinson | 0(1) |
| Will Young | 30(32) |
| Mark Chapman | 2(6) |
| Glenn Phillips | 4(9) |
| Michael Bracewell | 0(4) |
| Mitchell Hay | 3(5) |
| Mitchell Santner | 19(24) |
| Josh Clarkson | 24(25) |
| Zakary Foulkes | 6(6) |
| Ish Sodhi | 1(5) |
| Lockie Ferguson | 0*(0) |
| Extras | 19 (b11, lb5, wd3) |
| Total | 108/10 |
| Pathum Nissanka | 52(51) |
| Kusal Mendis | 2(7) |
| Kusal Perera | 3(10) |
| Kamindu Mendis | 1(5) |
| Charith Asalanka(c) | 0(1) |
| Bhanuka Rajapaksa | 15(13) |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | 3(7) |
| Dunith Wellalage | 1(9) |
| Maheesh Theekshana | 14(16) |
| Matheesha Pathirana | 0(1) |
| Nuwan Thushara | 1(1) |
| Extras | 11 (b4, nb2, wd5) |
| Total | 103/10 |
Conclusion
Both teams played an exciting and dramatic match, showcasing their best skills. However, New Zealand held their ground and emerged victorious. As the series progresses, the upcoming matches are sure to bring even more thrilling moments.
