NELSON, New Zealand, Jan 2, (V7N): Kusal Perera delivered a record-breaking performance to help Sri Lanka secure a hard-fought seven-run win over New Zealand in the third and final T20 International at Nelson on Thursday. Though New Zealand claimed the series 2-1, the visitors salvaged pride with a spirited display.

Electing to bat first for the first time in the series, Sri Lanka set an imposing target of 218-5 in 20 overs, powered by Kusal Perera's scintillating 101 off just 46 deliveries. Perera’s knock, laced with 13 fours and four sixes, was the fastest T20I century by a Sri Lankan, highlighting his determination to bounce back after two disappointing matches.

He received valuable support from Charith Asalanka, who blasted 46 off 24 balls, including five sixes and a four. The duo combined for a 100-run partnership that proved pivotal in Sri Lanka’s innings.

New Zealand’s fielding saw moments of brilliance and missed opportunities. Perera was dropped twice—on 15 and 60—by the usually reliable fielders, which proved costly. However, Mitchell Hay produced a stunning effort to dismiss Pathum Nissanka for 14, sprinting back to the boundary to complete a remarkable juggling catch.

Chasing 219, New Zealand started strong but fell just short at 211-7 despite Rachin Ravindra’s valiant 69 off 36 balls. Contributions from Tim Robinson (37) and Daryl Mitchell (35) kept the hosts in the hunt, but tight bowling from Sri Lanka in the death overs secured the victory.

Charith Asalanka backed up his batting heroics with the ball, claiming 3-50, while Wanindu Hasaranga took 2-38 to stymie New Zealand’s progress.

Match Highlights

Kusal Perera’s Milestone: Fastest T20I century by a Sri Lankan (46 balls).

Charith Asalanka’s All-round Show: 46 runs and 3 wickets.

Fielding Brilliance: Mitchell Hay’s acrobatic catch on the boundary.

Close Finish: Sri Lanka’s bowlers held their nerve in the final overs.

Post-Match Comments

Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka lauded his team’s effort:

“This win means a lot to us after the series loss. Kusal’s innings was phenomenal, and the bowlers delivered under pressure.”

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson praised his team’s fightback but rued missed chances:

“We were in the game until the end, but credit to Sri Lanka for the way they played. We need to sharpen our fielding in crucial moments.”

Series Summary

Match Results:

1st T20: New Zealand won

2nd T20: New Zealand won

3rd T20: Sri Lanka won

Series Winner: New Zealand (2-1)

Sri Lanka will take heart from their improved performance as they prepare for upcoming challenges, while New Zealand remains a formidable side in white-ball cricket, continuing to fine-tune their lineup ahead of the World T20.

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