Mon Dec 30 13:31:50 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Clinches 2-0 Series Lead Against Sri Lanka with T20 Victory

**WELLINGTON, New Zealand** – New Zealand secured a convincing victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I, extending their series lead to 2-0. Despite a strong start by Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera, a disciplined bowling performance from the Blackcaps, spearheaded by Jacob Duffy’s four wickets and Matt Henry’s three, proved decisive.

While no batsman reached a half-century, Mark Chapman and Tim Robinson provided a solid foundation for New Zealand’s innings, with Mitchell Bay’s quick-fire 41 adding crucial late impetus. New Zealand posted a challenging total, which proved too much for Sri Lanka despite Perera’s near half-century (48).

Sri Lanka’s chase faltered significantly after the loss of key wickets in the middle order. Duffy’s consistent threat, particularly his two-wicket over, disrupted the Sri Lankan batting line-up, while crucial dismissals of Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis further hampered their progress. Charith Asalanka’s attempt to accelerate the innings ended in his dismissal, leaving Sri Lanka needing an improbable 47 runs from the final 12 balls. The lower order crumbled, handing New Zealand a comfortable win.

The victory solidifies New Zealand’s dominance in the series, leaving Sri Lanka needing a significant turnaround in the final match to avoid a clean sweep.

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