NZ Seal Dramatic Win to Lead 1-0 Against Sri Lanka

New Zealand staged an incredible comeback to defeat Sri Lanka by eight runs in the first T20I at Mount Maunganui, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

Chasing a target of 173, Sri Lanka looked poised for victory at 121/0, with Pathum Nissanka (90) and Kusal Mendis (46) dominating the chase. However, Jacob Duffy turned the game around with a match-defining 14th over, claiming three wickets, including two golden ducks. Duffy’s spell (4-0-21-3) opened the door for the hosts to snatch an improbable victory.

Sri Lanka, needing just 29 runs off three overs with seven wickets in hand, saw their middle-order crumble under pressure. Zakary Foulkes and Matt Henry delivered in the death overs, with Foulkes accounting for two dismissals and a run-out. Nissanka, despite his valiant knock, fell to a stunning deep catch by Tim Robinson, leaving Sri Lanka reeling.

Earlier, New Zealand’s batting was anchored by Daryl Mitchell (62) and Michael Bracewell (59), whose 110-run partnership in 58 balls rescued the team from 65/5 and powered them to a competitive 172/8. Despite Binura Fernando (2/22) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/29) bowling well, Sri Lanka couldn't capitalize on their strong start during the chase.

Brief Scores:
New Zealand: 172/8 in 20 overs (Daryl Mitchell 62, Michael Bracewell 59; Binura Fernando 2-22, Maheesh Theekshana 2-29)
Sri Lanka: 164/8 in 20 overs (Pathum Nissanka 90, Kusal Mendis 46; Jacob Duffy 3-21, Matt Henry 2-28)
Result: New Zealand won by 8 runs.