New Zealand defeat Sri Lanka by 61 runs in T20 World Cup Super 8s contest
Batting first, New Zealand compiled 168/7 from their 20 overs. Mitchell Santner led the scoring with 47 off 26 deliveries, providing late acceleration after a measured start. Rachin Ravindra added 32, helping to stabilise the innings during the middle overs as Sri Lanka’s bowlers attempted to apply pressure.
Maheesh Theekshana delivered an important spell for Sri Lanka, returning 3/30 in four overs to limit New Zealand’s progress and prevent the total from pushing beyond 170.
Chasing 169, Sri Lanka struggled to maintain the required rate against disciplined New Zealand bowling. Regular wickets disrupted the chase, and partnerships failed to develop momentum across the innings.
Ravindra played a decisive role with the ball, claiming 4/27 in his four overs to dismantle Sri Lanka’s middle order. Despite batting through the full 20 overs, Sri Lanka managed 107/8, falling well short of the target.
The comprehensive defeat confirmed Sri Lanka’s elimination from the Super 8 stage, ending their hopes of reaching the semi-finals, while New Zealand strengthened their position in the race for the final four.
