Sun Nov 10 05:33:19 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Spinners Dominate to Win Low-Scoring T20 Thriller

**COLOMBO, SRI LANKA -** Sri Lanka’s spinners proved too much for New Zealand in a low-scoring first Twenty20 on Saturday, securing a four-wicket victory.

Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana combined for six wickets, dismantling the New Zealand batting order and bowling them out for a paltry 135 in 19.3 overs.

New Zealand struggled from the outset, collapsing to 31-3 inside the powerplay. While Zakary Foulkes (3-16) provided some late resistance with a quickfire 27 not out, the Kiwi innings never recovered.

Despite a shaky start in their run chase, Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka (35* – the game’s top score) steered the team to victory with an over to spare. Asalanka’s unbeaten innings, which included two sixes and a boundary, secured the win for Sri Lanka.

“Bit of nerves, but my plan was to bat till the end,” said Asalanka. “We could have bowled them out 15-20 runs before, but credit should go to their lower order batters.”

The second and final Twenty20 is scheduled for Sunday at the same venue. Both teams will then play three ODIs, gearing up for the Champions Trophy next year.

**Key Highlights:**

* Sri Lankan spinners Wellalage (3-20), Hasaranga (2-20), and Theekshana (1-21) were the star performers, keeping New Zealand’s batsmen under pressure throughout.
* Despite a strong bowling display, Sri Lanka’s chase was far from comfortable. Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Kusal Perera were dismissed early.
* Asalanka’s crucial unbeaten innings proved to be the difference maker.
* The victory marks Sri Lanka’s first win over New Zealand in the T20 format.

The second T20 promises to be another exciting encounter as New Zealand look to bounce back from this defeat.

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