Santner, McConchie Lead Late Rescue
Asked to bat first, New Zealand found themselves in deep trouble at 84/6 after 15 overs. Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling attack had reduced the Kiwis to a precarious position, threatening to restrict them below 150.
Captain Mitchell Santner rose to the occasion with a powerful 47 off 26 balls, striking four sixes and two boundaries. Cole McConchie provided solid support with an unbeaten 31 as the duo stitched together an 84-run partnership for the seventh wicket.
The turnaround came dramatically in the final four overs, where New Zealand hammered 70 runs to post a competitive 168/7. What seemed like a below-par total suddenly turned into a daunting target.
Sri Lanka’s Early Collapse
Sri Lanka’s chase began disastrously. Matt Henry struck with the very first delivery, clean bowling Pathum Nissanka. He followed it up with another wicket in his next over to leave the hosts reeling at 20/2 inside the powerplay.
The pressure mounted as Rachin Ravindra dismantled the middle order with a superb spell of left-arm spin. He claimed 4/27, including two identical stumpings, recording his best T20I bowling figures.
No Momentum for the Hosts
Though Kamindu Mendis (31) and Dunith Wellalage (29) attempted to stabilise the innings, Sri Lanka struggled to build partnerships. Boundaries were hard to come by, and the required run rate kept climbing.
New Zealand’s disciplined bowling ensured regular breakthroughs, restricting Sri Lanka to 107/8 in 20 overs. The 61-run victory not only boosted New Zealand’s net run rate but also strengthened their position in Group 2.
Semi-Final Scenario
With this defeat, Sri Lanka suffered their second successive loss in the Super Eight stage and were eliminated from semi-final contention. England have already secured qualification from the group.
New Zealand currently sit second in Group 2 with three points. Pakistan remain mathematically in contention but must win their final game convincingly and depend on other results to progress.
All-Round Excellence
The victory highlighted New Zealand’s depth and adaptability. From a middle-order collapse to a commanding bowling display, the Kiwis showcased composure under pressure.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continues to deliver thrilling contests as teams battle for the final four spots.
For Sri Lanka, the campaign ends in disappointment. For New Zealand, the dream of lifting the T20 World Cup trophy remains very much alive.
