NELSON, New Zealand — Kusal Perera delivered an exceptional performance, recording the fastest century for Sri Lanka in Twenty20 internationals, reaching the milestone in just 44 balls. This outstanding achievement helped lead his team to a thrilling seven-run victory over New Zealand in the final match of a three-match series.
Sri Lanka posted a commendable total of 218 runs for the loss of five wickets, marking their second-highest score in T20s and their first time batting first in the series. The match was critical for the visitors, who were trying to claim their first win in the series, having lost the first two matches by a narrow eight-run margin and a significant 45 runs.
New Zealand entered the game with the intention of completing a clean sweep, which meant they needed to chase down a record score for T20 matches. Rachin Ravindra made a solid contribution with 69 runs off 39 balls, setting the stage for a competitive run chase. However, New Zealand’s final score of 211 for 7 fell just short of their target.
The Black Caps made a strong start, scoring 60 runs without loss during the first six overs. Nevertheless, Charith Asalanka helped turn the tide by taking consecutive wickets, dismissing Ravindra and followed by Mark Chapman and Glenn Phillips. Asalanka’s impressive bowling figures of 3 for 25 shifted the momentum back to Sri Lanka.
While Daryl Mitchell countered by hitting four sixes in quick succession, reviving New Zealand’s hopes, Wanindu Hasaranga intercepted the attack, dismissing both Mitchell Hay and Michael Bracewell in crucial moments. Asalanka showcased his skills not only with the ball but also in the field, making a remarkable diving catch.
After the match, Asalanka expressed satisfaction with the win, highlighting the efforts of the team throughout the series and the importance of adapting to varying conditions. He mentioned that although previous matches hadn’t gone their way, this victory should act as a foundation for future progress.
As the final over commenced, New Zealand required 22 runs to clinch the match. They managed to score only six runs from the first three deliveries, including a wide, and Zak Foulkes hit a six on the fourth ball, leaving the Kiwis with a daunting task of needing 10 runs off the last two balls. Ultimately, they could only add three more runs to their score before the innings concluded.
The match was slightly delayed at the start due to a wet outfield, and although Sri Lanka lost the toss, they took full advantage of favorable pitch conditions at Saxton Oval. They faced early setbacks with the loss of openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis during the power play, but Perera’s explosive innings—consisting of 101 runs from 46 balls, with 13 fours and four sixes—proved instrumental.
A critical sequence between the 14th and 18th overs saw the partnership between Perera and Asalanka yield 75 runs, bolstering Sri Lanka’s total and creating an insurmountable target for New Zealand. The two teams will face off again in the first of three one-day internationals in Wellington, starting on Sunday.
