New Zealand Clinch T20I Series with a Convincing Win over Sri Lanka
New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka in the second T20I of the three-match series, wrapping up the series with a commanding 2-0 lead. Led by a remarkable four-wicket haul from Lea Tahuhu and a half-century from Suzie Bates, New Zealand secured an eight-wicket victory.
After a disappointing loss in the ODI series, New Zealand bounced back strongly, reaching their target of 119 in just 18.4 overs. Bates and Bernadine Bezuidenhout provided a solid start with a 48-run partnership for the first wicket. Bates then continued her impressive form, teaming up with Amelia Kerr for a 59-run second-wicket collaboration. Bates displayed her flair and creativity in strokeplay, using innovative shots like the scoop and paddle to great effect, while also taking on the spinners.
Inoka Ranaweera managed to dismiss Bates, but Kerr and Sophie Devine swiftly finished the job, securing victory for their team.
Earlier, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu was unfortunate to be run out in the third over when she mistakenly attempted a run while turning a delivery from Eden Carson towards Vishmi Gunaratne, the non-striker.
Tahuhu made an immediate impact with two wickets in her first over, getting Gunaratne to chop on and then trapping Kavisha Dilhari lbw after just two balls.
A rain delay interrupted play, but Sri Lanka recovered thanks to a 57-run fourth-wicket partnership between Hasini Perera, who top-scored with 33 runs, and Harshitha Samarawickrama. However, their dismissals came too quickly, hindering Sri Lanka’s progress.
Despite Anushka Sanjeewani and Nilakshi de Silva scoring 13 runs off a single Leigh Kasperek over, Sri Lanka’s total of 118/6 was never going to be enough against a determined New Zealand side.
In conclusion, New Zealand displayed their dominance in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, securing a comprehensive 2-0 victory. The bowling heroics of Lea Tahuhu, coupled with the batting prowess of Suzie Bates, played a crucial role in their success. Sri Lanka put up a fight with partnerships from Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama, but their efforts fell short. New Zealand’s convincing win ensures they end their tour on a high note, overcoming the disappointment of the ODI series loss.
