Sri Lanka won the first T20I of the series by defeat New Zealand Rangiri with 4 wickets in a low scoring contest at the Dambulla International Stadium.
New Zealand’s batting is struggling against Sri Lanka’s bowling attack
After electing to bat first, the Black Caps got off to a tough start with back-to-back wickets falling. Tim Robinson (3 off 6) and Mark Chapman (1 off 6) were dismissed cheaply, putting pressure on the middle order. Will Young (19 off 19) and Glenn Phillips (13 off 13) put up some resistance but the scoring rate was slow. Michael Bracewell top-scored with 27 runs off 24 balls while Zachary Foulkes improved late on with 27 runs off 16 balls. Despite their efforts, New Zealand’s batting was erratic and they were bowled out for just 135 in 19.3 overs.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated the proceedings. Fast bowler Nuwan Thuhara got off to a solid start with 2 wickets for just 14 runs in 3 overs. Dunith Wellalage’s brilliant spell of 3 wickets for 20 runs from 3.3 put the Kiwis on the back foot. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga were also key contributors claiming 2 wickets each.
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Charith Asalanka anchors Sri Lanka’s successful chase
Chasing 136, Sri Lanka suffered a couple of early setbacks, with Kusal Mendis (0 off 5) for a duck and Pathum Nissanka Departs for 19. Kusal Perera (23 off 17) and Kamindu Mendis (23 off 16) made useful contributions with the bat. However, the chase was anchored by Charith Asalanka who steered Sri Lanka towards the target with 35 off 28 balls. All-rounder Vanindu Hasaranga (23 off 22) added crucial runs while Dunith Wellalage (7 off 11) provided the finishing touch. Sri Lanka reached the target with 4 wickets at 140/6 in 19 overs.
The New Zealand bowlers struggled, with Zachary Foulkes taking 3 wickets for just 20 runs in 3 overs. Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips claimed a wicket each but the Kiwi bowlers could not defend their modest total.
Charith Asalanka was named Man of the Match for his match-winning knock, leading Sri Lanka to a hard-fought victory.
The next match of the series will be held on Sunday, November 10 at the same venue.
