Mount Maunganui, New Zealand – New Zealand clinched the three-match T20 series against Sri Lanka with a commanding 45-run victory in the second T20 international on Monday. The win gave the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead, showcasing a well-rounded performance with both bat and ball.
Sri Lanka, chasing a target of 187, fell short once again, getting bowled out for 141 in 19.1 overs. This defeat followed their narrow 8-run loss in the first T20, where they came close to chasing down 172 but faltered in the final moments.
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Sri Lanka’s Struggles in the Chase
Sri Lanka’s captain, Charith Asalanka, expressed his disappointment after the match, emphasizing the importance of finishing games.
“It’s really important to finish the game, no matter how it started. The way you finish is the most important thing. In the first game, we were almost there to win, and again we’re disappointed,” said Asalanka.
The visitors started their chase with promise, as Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera looked well-set to guide their team to victory. Nissanka, who had scored a brilliant 96 in the first match, managed 37 this time before falling to New Zealand’s standout bowler, Jacob Duffy.
Perera, on the other hand, played a solid knock of 48, but his dismissal in the 16th over, courtesy of a stunning yorker from Duffy, marked the turning point of the game. At that stage, Sri Lanka was 127-4, still in contention, but their lower order crumbled under pressure.
Jacob Duffy: The Game-Changer
For the second match in a row, Jacob Duffy proved to be the difference-maker for New Zealand. After his match-winning spell in the first T20, where he took 3 wickets in 4 balls, Duffy delivered another stellar performance, finishing with figures of 4-15.
Key Moments from Duffy’s Spell:
- Dismissal of Pathum Nissanka:
Duffy removed the dangerous Nissanka early, breaking Sri Lanka’s momentum. - Crucial Wicket of Kusal Perera:
A perfectly executed yorker in the 16th over sent Perera back to the pavilion, derailing Sri Lanka’s chase. - Double Strike in the 18th Over:
Duffy dismissed Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in quick succession, leaving Sri Lanka’s tail exposed.
Duffy’s ability to deliver under pressure has been a key factor in New Zealand’s success in this series.
Mitchell Hay: Contributions
Unlike the first T20, where New Zealand relied heavily on a century partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell, the second match saw a more balanced batting performance.
Key Contributions:
- Tim Robinson:
Opening the innings, Robinson provided early momentum with a solid 41 off 34 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes. - Mark Chapman:
Batting at No. 3, Chapman anchored the innings with a well-paced 42 off 29 balls, ensuring New Zealand maintained a steady run rate. - Mitchell Hay’s Finishing Touch:
The standout performance came from Mitchell Hay, who smashed an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls at the death. His explosive innings, which included four fours and two sixes, helped New Zealand post a challenging total of 186-5 on a tricky pitch.
“It was good to contribute to a good score, one we were pretty happy with, and to contribute to a win,” said Hay after the match.
The Pitch and Conditions
The Bay Oval pitch presented a unique challenge for both teams. It was unpredictable, with some deliveries skidding through while others held up, making shot-making difficult. Additionally, a strong wind across the ground made hitting to one side particularly challenging, giving bowlers an edge.
Despite these conditions, New Zealand’s batters adapted well, building partnerships and accelerating at the right moments.
Sri Lanka’s Lower-Order Collapse
Sri Lanka’s inability to finish games has been a recurring issue in this series. After Perera’s dismissal, the lower order failed to step up:
- Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana fell in quick succession to Duffy.
- Matt Henry struck twice in the 19th over, further denting Sri Lanka’s hopes.
- Zak Foulkes wrapped up the innings with five balls to spare, leaving Sri Lanka all out for 141.
New Zealand’s Bowling Brilliance
New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Duffy, executed their plans to perfection. Matt Henry and Zak Foulkes also chipped in with crucial wickets, ensuring Sri Lanka never gained the upper hand.
Series Takeaways
With this win, New Zealand has secured the series with one match to spare. The hosts have displayed a well-rounded performance, with contributions from both batters and bowlers.
For Sri Lanka, the series has highlighted their struggles in finishing games and the need for greater contributions from their middle and lower order.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s 45-run victory in the second T20 against Sri Lanka showcased their dominance in all departments. With a balanced batting effort and a stellar bowling performance led by Jacob Duffy, the hosts have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
For Sri Lanka, the inability to finish games remains a concern. Despite promising starts in both matches, their middle and lower order have failed to deliver under pressure. As the teams head into the final match, Sri Lanka will be looking to salvage some pride, while New Zealand will aim for a clean sweep.
Mitchell Hay’s explosive batting and Jacob Duffy’s game-changing spells have been the highlights of the series, underlining New Zealand’s depth and adaptability. The final match promises to be another exciting contest as both teams look to end the series on a high note.
FAQs
1. Who was the standout performer in New Zealand’s win over Sri Lanka in the 2nd T20?
The standout performer was Jacob Duffy, who took 4-15, including the crucial wickets of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera. His spell turned the game in New Zealand’s favor.
2. How did Mitchell Hay contribute to New Zealand’s victory?
Mitchell Hay played a vital role with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls in the final overs. His explosive innings helped New Zealand post a competitive total of 186-5, which proved too much for Sri Lanka.
