Sri Lanka crash out of T20 World Cup after defeat by New Zealand

KABUL (Pajhwok): Co-hosts Sri Lanka have been knocked out of the T20 World Cup after slumping to a comprehensive 61-run defeat against New Zealand in Colombo.

Needing victory to keep their semi-final ambitions alive, Sri Lanka appeared to have New Zealand under control for much of the first innings, according to BBC.

The visitors were restricted to 98-6 after 16 overs, but a dramatic late onslaught transformed the contest.

Mitchell Santner struck a blistering 47 from 26 deliveries, while Cole McConchie contributed an unbeaten 31 from 23 balls, as New Zealand plundered 70 runs from the final four overs to post 169.

Set 170 for victory, Sri Lanka’s reply never gained momentum. Fast bowler Matt Henry made early inroads, claiming two wickets in the powerplay.

The situation worsened in the ninth over when Rachin Ravindra removed both Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake via stumpings, reducing the hosts to 29-4 and effectively ending the contest.

Ravindra, who had earlier scored 32 from 22 balls, finished with outstanding figures of 4-27. Henry, after returning 2-3 from his two overs, was not required again as Sri Lanka limped to 107-8.

For much of New Zealand’s innings, Sri Lanka’s bowlers had set the tone impressively. Maheesh Theekshana claimed 3-9 in his opening three overs, while Dushmantha Chameera also bowled with pace and discipline.

The pair helped reduce New Zealand from 75-2 to 84-6 in under three overs, placing Sri Lanka firmly in command.

However, the hosts failed to capitalise. McConchie initiated the recovery before captain Santner launched a fierce counter-attack, sharing a decisive 84-run partnership that propelled New Zealand to a competitive total.

Sri Lanka, who had already suffered defeat to England in their opening Super 8s fixture, exit the tournament quietly. Meanwhile, New Zealand remain in contention for a fifth T20 World Cup semi-final appearance.

Both teams have one Super 8s match remaining. New Zealand face England on Friday, knowing victory will secure their place in the last four, while Sri Lanka take on Pakistan in Pallekele on Saturday.

sa