Mon Nov 11 00:45:17 UTC 2024: ## Lockie Ferguson Claims Fifth T20I Hattrick for New Zealand, Securing Series Levelling Win Against Sri Lanka

Dambulla, Sri Lanka – Lockie Ferguson etched his name in New Zealand cricketing history on Sunday, becoming the fifth Kiwi bowler to claim a T20I hattrick. The feat came in the second T20I against Sri Lanka, helping New Zealand level the series at 1-1.

Ferguson, entering the attack in the last over of the powerplay, dismissed Kusal Perera on the final ball of the over. He returned in the eighth over to claim the wickets of Kamindu Mendis and Charith Asalanka in the first two deliveries, securing his hattrick.

Despite a valiant 52-run knock from Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka fell short by five runs, failing to chase down New Zealand’s modest total of 108. This was the lowest total New Zealand has ever successfully defended in a T20I.

Ferguson’s 3/7 in two overs was complemented by Glenn Phillips’ impressive 3/6 in less than two overs. Michael Bracewell also contributed with two wickets.

Earlier, Will Young (30) and Josh Clarkson (24) were New Zealand’s top scorers, but the Kiwis were bowled out for 108 in 19.3 overs. Wanindu Hararanga (4/17) and Matheesha Pathirana (3/11) were the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers.

Meanwhile, Mitchell Santner celebrated his 3,000 international runs during his 19-run knock, smashing two boundaries before being dismissed by Pathirana.

The two teams will now face off in a three-match ODI series, starting in Dambulla. The remaining two ODIs will be played in Pallekele.

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