Thu Jan 02 13:13:53 UTC 2025: ## Sri Lanka Stuns New Zealand with Thrilling T20 Victory
**Nelson, New Zealand –** Kusal Perera’s blistering century propelled Sri Lanka to a thrilling seven-run victory over New Zealand in the final T20I of their three-match series at Saxton Oval on Thursday. Perera smashed the fastest T20I century for Sri Lanka, reaching the milestone off just 44 balls, a knock that included 13 fours and four sixes. His 101, coupled with a crucial partnership of 75 runs with captain Charith Asalanka, powered Sri Lanka to a challenging 218-5, their second-highest T20I total.
Despite a strong start from Rachin Ravindra (69 runs off 39 balls), New Zealand fell short of the target, finishing on 211-7. While the Black Caps began aggressively, reaching 60-0 in the powerplay, Asalanka’s crucial wickets of Ravindra, Mark Chapman, and Glenn Phillips stifled their momentum. Daryl Mitchell’s late flurry of four consecutive sixes briefly revived New Zealand’s hopes, but Wanindu Hasaranga’s double strike in the 16th over swung the match back in Sri Lanka’s favor. A final-over collapse, needing 22 runs from the last six balls, ultimately sealed New Zealand’s fate.
The match, delayed by 30 minutes due to a wet outfield, saw Sri Lanka overcome a shaky start, losing both openers early. However, Perera’s explosive innings, alongside Asalanka’s all-round brilliance (3-25 and a stunning catch), guided Sri Lanka to a much-needed win after losing the first two matches of the series. Asalanka expressed optimism that this victory would provide momentum for the upcoming ODI series. The two teams will face off in the first of three ODIs in Wellington on Sunday.
First Piper 