New Zealand Vs Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's Strong Start Chasing 173 Against New Zealand in 1st T20I




In the first T20 International between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, Sri Lanka is off to a promising start in their pursuit of a 173-run target set by New Zealand.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to bowl, restricting New Zealand to 172 for 8 in their 20 overs. Daryl Mitchell top-scored for the hosts with a well-compiled 62 off 40 balls, while Michael Bracewell contributed a brisk 58 from 31 deliveries. Sri Lankan bowler Maheesh Theekshana was instrumental in containing the New Zealand batsmen, finishing with figures of 2 for 29 in his four overs. 

In response, Sri Lanka's openers have laid a solid foundation. After 6 overs, they are at 55 without loss, with Pathum Nissanka leading the charge with 36 runs off 22 balls, including five boundaries and a six. Kusal Mendis is providing steady support with 15 runs from 14 deliveries. 

The match also marks Mitchell Santner's debut as New Zealand's white-ball captain, following his recent appointment. 

As the game progresses, Sri Lanka requires 118 runs from 84 balls to clinch victory, maintaining a current run rate of 9.16. With all ten wickets in hand, they are well-positioned, but New Zealand will aim to apply pressure in the middle overs to shift the momentum.


Comments