Sri Lanka once again struggled in a challenging run chase, as New Zealand secured a 45-run victory in the second T20 international on Monday, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Sri Lanka had fallen short by just eight runs in the first match while chasing 172-8, and once again faltered in the chase on Monday, failing to reach New Zealand’s total of 186-5. They were all out for 141 in 19.1 overs.
“It’s really important to finish the game, no matter how it started,” said Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka. “The way you finish is the most important thing. In the first game, we were almost there to win, and again we’re disappointed.”
New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy played a key role once again, dismissing opener Pathum Nissanka for 37 and later removing Kusal Perera for 48, both crucial moments when the Sri Lankan batters were looking set to guide their team to victory.
Duffy, who had a pivotal role in New Zealand’s win in the first match with three wickets in four balls, was even more influential this time, finishing with figures of 4-15. His superb yorker to dismiss Perera in the 16th over when Sri Lanka was 127-4 kept the pressure on. He then claimed two quick wickets in the 18th over to remove Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, breaking the back of the Sri Lankan innings.
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Matt Henry also contributed with two wickets in the 19th over, and Zak Foulkes wrapped up the Sri Lankan innings with five balls to spare.
New Zealand’s batting was more balanced than in the first match, where a century partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell had set a strong foundation. On Monday, the hosts managed a challenging total on a tricky pitch that varied between skidding and holding up. A strong wind also made batting to one side of the ground difficult.
Tim Robinson gave New Zealand a strong start, making 41 off 34 balls, while Rachin Ravindra failed again, dismissed for just 1. Mark Chapman contributed 42 off 29 balls at No. 3, and Mitchell’s vital unbeaten 41 off 19 balls, including four fours and two sixes, guided New Zealand to a total that proved too much for Sri Lanka.s represent the best of Test cricket in 2024, with unforgettable performances that defined the year.
