Thu Jan 02 11:59:05 UTC 2025: ## Sri Lanka Claims Consolation Win Over New Zealand in T20 Series Finale
**Nelson, New Zealand –** Sri Lanka secured a thrilling seven-run victory over New Zealand in the final Twenty20 International (T20I) of their three-match series on Thursday, despite New Zealand winning the overall series 2-0. Kusal Perera’s stunning century, the fastest T20I century ever scored by a Sri Lankan (44 balls), propelled Sri Lanka to a challenging 218/5. His 101 runs, including 13 fours and four sixes, formed the backbone of a crucial 75-run partnership with captain Charith Asalanka.
New Zealand, needing their highest-ever T20 run chase for a series sweep, made a strong start with Rachin Ravindra’s 69 from 39 balls. However, Asalanka’s impressive bowling figures (3 for 25), including quick wickets of Ravindra, Mark Chapman, and Glenn Phillips, slowed their momentum. Although Daryl Mitchell’s late flurry of sixes briefly revived New Zealand’s hopes, Wanindu Hasaranga’s crucial dismissals of Mitchell Hay and Michael Bracewell swung the momentum back to Sri Lanka. A superb diving catch by Asalanka to remove Bracewell further solidified Sri Lanka’s advantage.
Despite a late surge, New Zealand fell short by seven runs, finishing on 211/7. The final over, needing 22 runs, saw Zak Foulkes hit a six but ultimately proved insufficient for victory.
The match, delayed by 30 minutes due to a wet outfield, saw Sri Lanka overcome a shaky start losing both openers early. Asalanka praised the team’s adaptability and expressed hope that this win would provide momentum going forward. The two teams will now face off in a three-match One Day International (ODI) series starting in Wellington on Sunday.
First Piper 