New Zealand Outclass Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I to Clinch Series 2-0

In an exciting second T20I match at Bay Oval, New Zealand showcased their dominance over Sri Lanka with a convincing 45-run victory. This win not only secured the match but also sealed the three-match series 2-0 in favor of the Kiwis. Despite valiant efforts from Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera, New Zealand's sharp bowling attack, led by Jacob Duffy, proved to be the game-changer.

Sri Lanka’s Struggle in the Chase

Chasing a target of 187, Sri Lanka faltered and were bowled out for 141 in 19.1 overs. Their chase never really took off, mirroring their performance in the first T20I where they fell short by eight runs. The highlight of the innings was Kusal Perera’s 48 and Pathum Nissanka’s 37, but the lack of support from the middle and lower order proved costly.

Jacob Duffy was once again the wrecker-in-chief for New Zealand, delivering a match-winning spell of 4-15. His accurate bowling removed key batsmen at crucial moments, including Nissanka and Perera, dismantling Sri Lanka’s hopes of a comeback.

Jacob Duffy’s Match-Winning Performance

Duffy's performance was a continuation of his heroics in the first T20I, where his crucial three-wicket burst had shifted the momentum in New Zealand's favor. In the second match, he removed Nissanka early and delivered a brilliant yorker to dismiss Perera in the 16th over. He also cleaned up Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in quick succession, exposing Sri Lanka’s fragile lower order.

Matt Henry also played a key role, taking two wickets in the 19th over, while Zak Foulkes wrapped up the innings with five balls to spare.

New Zealand’s Balanced Batting Effort

Earlier in the match, New Zealand posted a challenging total of 186-5. On a pitch that offered inconsistent bounce and under conditions affected by strong winds, their batting lineup showed great resilience.

Tim Robinson gave the team a brisk start, scoring 41 off 34 balls, while Mark Chapman added a steady 42 from 29 deliveries. The finishing touches came from Mitchell, who smashed an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls, including four fours and two sixes. His late surge ensured New Zealand had a defendable score.

Reflecting on the win, Mitchell said, “It was good to contribute to a good score, one we were pretty happy with and to contribute to a win.”

Sri Lanka’s Captain Speaks

Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka expressed disappointment after the match. “The way you finish is the most important thing. In the first game we were almost there to win, and again we're disappointed,” he said, pointing to his team's inability to capitalize on key moments.

Series Wrap-Up

With this victory, New Zealand claimed the series and left Sri Lanka searching for answers ahead of the final match. The Kiwis’ all-round performance in both matches highlighted their depth and adaptability, while Sri Lanka will need to address their batting woes to bounce back.

The final T20I promises to be an exciting contest, with Sri Lanka looking to salvage pride and New Zealand aiming for a clean sweep.

Reference from :- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/new-zealand-outclass-sri-lanka-in-2nd-t20i-by-45-runs-to-clinch-series/articleshow/116799064.cms