New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 61 runs in the Super 8s stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, ending the co-hosts’ campaign and strengthening their own chances of reaching the semi-finals. Sri Lanka were bowled out of contention after failing to chase a target of 169, finishing on 107-8.
The result leaves Sri Lanka with two defeats from two Super 8s matches, confirming their exit from the tournament. New Zealand, meanwhile, remain in contention for a semi-final place, though their qualification could depend on results in the final round of group fixtures and net run rate calculations.
Late recovery lifts New Zealand to 168-7
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka chose to bowl first. New Zealand struggled in the middle overs and were reduced to 84-6, still under pressure at 90-6 after 15 overs.
A counter-attacking partnership between Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie shifted momentum. Santner scored 47 from 26 deliveries, hitting four sixes and two boundaries, while McConchie added 31 off 23 balls. The pair combined for 80 runs from 43 deliveries, helping New Zealand close on 168-7.
Sri Lanka’s Dushmantha Chameera and Maheesh Theekshana claimed three wickets each but conceded heavily in the final overs as New Zealand accelerated.
Sri Lanka falter in run chase
Sri Lanka’s reply began poorly when opener Pathum Nissanka was dismissed on the first ball by Matt Henry. Early wickets left the hosts struggling at 6-2, and the innings never recovered momentum.
New Zealand’s bowlers maintained control through disciplined pace and spin. Left-arm spinner Rachin Ravindra produced career-best T20 figures of 4-27, while Henry finished with two wickets for three runs. Sri Lanka closed on 107-8, well short of the target.
Speaking after the match, Shanaka acknowledged the disappointment of exiting in front of home supporters and credited New Zealand for their performance.
The defeat confirms Sri Lanka’s elimination from the tournament. New Zealand’s progression to the semi-finals will depend on the outcome of upcoming Super 8s matches, including their final group fixture.
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