Sun Nov 10 02:37:09 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Edge Past New Zealand in Thrilling T20 Opener

**Dambulla, Sri Lanka:** Sri Lanka secured a hard-fought four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first T20I at Dambulla on Saturday, thanks to a captain’s knock from Charith Asalanka. Chasing a modest 136 for victory, Sri Lanka struggled against the visiting team, but a crucial 38-run stand between Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga steadied the ship.

Asalanka remained unbeaten on 35 off 28 balls, while Dunith Wellalage, who earlier claimed three wickets with the ball, hit a towering six off Jacob Duffy to seal the win with an over to spare.

New Zealand, who opted to bat first, were restricted to 135 runs, with their spinners dominating the middle overs. Michael Bracewell and Zakary Foulkes offered some resistance with the bat, but the total proved insufficient.

“We were a bit nervous, but my plan was to bat till the end,” said Asalanka, who was named Player of the Match. “We could have restricted New Zealand to 10-15 runs less, but the tailenders batted well. As a team, we are confident about our spin bowling and we are moving forward well.”

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner lauded Sri Lanka’s spin attack, but expressed disappointment at their inability to capitalize on a few good opportunities. “We did well to get to 130, but the Sri Lankan spinners bowled really well,” he said. “It’s a privilege to lead this young group, and we have a lot of ODI and T20I cricket coming up.”

The second and final T20I of the series will be played at the same venue on Sunday, with New Zealand looking to level the series.

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