Nelson, Thursday: Kusal Perera delivered a stunning performance in the third and final T20 against New Zealand, smashing a career-best 101 off just 46 balls to lead Sri Lanka to a thrilling seven-run victory. The visitors, having already lost the series, showcased their resilience with an inspired performance that denied New Zealand a clean sweep.
Perera’s electrifying knock, laced with 13 fours and four sixes, powered Sri Lanka to a formidable 218-5 in their 20 overs. His innings, the fastest T20I century by a Sri Lankan, came with moments of fortune as he was dropped on 15 and 60. Despite a shaky start, edging the first ball he faced from Zak Foulkes, Perera found his rhythm and dismantled the New Zealand bowling attack.
The left-hander received support from Avishka Fernando, who contributed 17 runs in a 41-run partnership, and skipper Charith Asalanka, who smashed 46 off 24 balls in a brisk 100-run stand. Asalanka, leading from the front, also chipped in with the ball, finishing with 3-50, including key wickets during New Zealand’s chase.
New Zealand’s reply was spirited, with Rachin Ravindra leading the charge with a 39-ball 69. Tim Robinson added 37 off 21, while Daryl Mitchell’s explosive 35 off 17 balls in the final overs brought the hosts tantalizingly close. Mitchell’s effort included four sixes, with hopes briefly reignited in the last over. However, Sri Lanka held their nerve to seal the win.
The match also featured a spectacular piece of fielding from Mitchell Hay, who pulled off a remarkable boundary-line catch to dismiss Pathum Nissanka. Hay sprinted back to take the top-edge, tossing the ball in the air as he stepped over the boundary before returning to complete the catch.
With the series ending 2-1 in New Zealand’s favor, Sri Lanka can take solace from this spirited performance as both teams now prepare for the ODI series starting Sunday in Wellington. This win not only highlighted Sri Lanka’s fighting spirit but also sets the stage for an exciting contest in the 50-over format.
