Nov 11, V7N-Lockie Ferguson's hat-trick and the Black Caps' incredible defense of a modest total of 108 helped them draw the T20 series 1-1 against Sri Lanka in Dambulla on Sunday. Despite New Zealand's modest total, Sri Lanka fell short, being bowled out for just 103, with Ferguson playing a pivotal role in the victory.
 
Ferguson struck early, dismissing Kusal Perera in the sixth over, and then took a hat-trick by dismissing Kamindu Mendis and Charith Asalanka in consecutive balls of the eighth over. While Ferguson noted that the excitement around the hat-trick was slightly muted due to its split over two overs, he was still pleased with the achievement, admitting that the hat-trick ball was not his best delivery. His evening ended prematurely due to a calf injury.
 
However, New Zealand's win was further bolstered by Glenn Phillips, who took three wickets in the final over, including the key dismissal of Pathum Nissanka for 52. Phillips' efforts in the closing stages helped dismiss Sri Lanka for the lowest total the Black Caps have ever defended in a T20 international.
 
Wicketkeeper Mitch Hay also had a standout performance, taking five catches and a stumping, setting the record for the most dismissals in a T20 international.
 
Ferguson, reflecting on the significance of the win, said it was "massive" for the inexperienced New Zealand team, especially in challenging overseas conditions. He praised the team's attitude and competitiveness, noting that winning in these conditions is incredibly difficult. The Black Caps' victory capped off a successful run for New Zealand cricket, which had seen the Test team sweep India and the women’s team win the T20 World Cup.
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