Sun Nov 17 09:36:58 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Defends Record Low Total to Beat Sri Lanka in Thrilling T20 Finish

**Dambulla, Sri Lanka** – New Zealand pulled off a stunning victory in the second T20I against Sri Lanka, defending a paltry 108 runs – their lowest ever successful T20I total – to win by five runs and draw the series 1-1. The thrilling finish saw Lockie Ferguson snatch a hat-trick and Glenn Phillips claim three wickets in a dramatic final over.

Ferguson’s hat-trick, the sixth by a New Zealander in men’s T20Is, came early in the innings, dismissing Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, and Charith Asalanka in quick succession. He finished with impressive figures of 3-7 from two overs.

Sri Lanka, needing just eight runs to win off the final over, faltered against Phillips’s off-spin. Phillips cleverly removed the well-set Pathum Nissanka (52 runs) and Matheesha Pathirana (golden duck) in consecutive balls, before dismissing Maheesh Theekshana with six runs still needed, sealing New Zealand’s improbable win. Phillips ended with 3-6 from 1.5 overs.

New Zealand’s batting performance had been underwhelming, with only Will Young (30) offering significant resistance against Wahindu Hasaranga’s 4-17. The Black Caps were bowled out for 108 in 19.3 overs. Mitchell Santner (19) and Josh Clarkson (24) provided late support.

The two teams now move on to a three-match ODI series, beginning on Wednesday.

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