Dec 31, (V7N) - New Zealand clinched the three-match T20I series with an unassailable 2-0 lead after defeating Sri Lanka by 45 runs in the second game at Bay Oval. A balanced batting performance and another stellar bowling display from Jacob Duffy proved decisive as Sri Lanka faltered in their chase of 187, being bowled out for 141 in 19.1 overs.

Duffy Leads New Zealand’s Bowling Charge

Jacob Duffy was once again the star for New Zealand, following up his match-winning 4-33 in the first game with an exceptional 4-15 in the second. His key scalps of Pathum Nissanka (37) and Kusal Perera (48) turned the tide in New Zealand’s favor when Sri Lanka looked poised to mount a serious challenge.

Duffy’s precision shone through when he delivered a brilliant yorker to dismiss Perera in the 16th over, leaving Sri Lanka at 127-4 and still requiring 60 runs off the last four overs. He then dismantled the lower order, taking two wickets in three balls during the 18th over to remove Wanindu Hasaranga (1) and Maheesh Theekshana (0), effectively sealing the game.

Support came from Matt Henry, who claimed two wickets in the 19th over, and Zak Foulkes, who wrapped up the innings with five balls to spare.

Sri Lanka’s Batting Woes Continue

Sri Lanka’s chase mirrored their struggles from the first match, where they fell eight runs short despite a strong start. This time, Nissanka and Perera provided hope with a 66-run second-wicket partnership, but the rest of the lineup faltered under pressure.

Perera’s 48 off 37 balls was the standout performance, featuring four boundaries and two sixes, but his dismissal in the 16th over marked the beginning of the end for Sri Lanka. Captain Charith Asalanka admitted the team’s frustration at their inability to close out games.

“It’s really important to finish the game, no matter how it started,” Asalanka said. “In the first game we were almost there to win, and again we’re disappointed.”

Balanced Batting Propels New Zealand

New Zealand’s innings was built on a collective effort, with contributions from the top, middle, and lower order. Tim Robinson set the tone with a brisk 41 off 34 balls, including three fours and two sixes, while Mark Chapman anchored the innings with a composed 42 off 29.

Michael Bracewell provided the finishing touch, smashing an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls. His late surge included four boundaries and two sixes, lifting New Zealand to a challenging total of 186-5 on a tricky Bay Oval pitch.

“It was good to contribute to a good score, one we were pretty happy with and to contribute to a win,” Bracewell said after the match.

The pitch at Bay Oval offered variable bounce, with some deliveries skidding and others holding up, creating challenges for batters. A strong crosswind added another layer of difficulty, particularly when hitting to one side of the ground.

New Zealand’s disciplined bowling exploited these conditions, as they consistently targeted the stumps and forced Sri Lanka’s batters into mistakes.

With an unassailable 2-0 lead, New Zealand has already secured the series, but the final match still offers Sri Lanka an opportunity to salvage pride. For New Zealand, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum and continuing to test their depth in preparation for upcoming challenges.

The third and final match will be a test of whether Sri Lanka can regroup and address their finishing issues or if New Zealand will complete a clean sweep in dominant fashion.

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