New Zealand are on the verge of completing a 3-0 clean sweep against Sri Lanka in the T20I series after taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the three-match contest. The third and final match is set to take place tomorrow, January 2, 2025.
In the second T20I on Monday, New Zealand secured a decisive 45-run victory, successfully defending their total of 186-5 by bowling Sri Lanka out for 141 in 19.1 overs. This win followed an intense first match, where New Zealand edged out Sri Lanka by eight runs.
Duffy’s Dominance
Jacob Duffy has been instrumental in New Zealand’s dominance, delivering match-winning performances in both games. In the second T20I, he dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting lineup with a remarkable 4-15, including the critical wickets of Pathum Nissanka (37) and Kusal Perera (48).
Duffy’s standout moment came in the 16th over, where a superb yorker dismissed Perera, who seemed well-placed to steer Sri Lanka towards victory. He followed up with a double blow in the 18th over, dismissing Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in quick succession, leaving Sri Lanka’s tailenders unable to mount a comeback.
In the first match, Duffy’s three wickets in four balls, including the dismissal of Kusal Mendis, shifted the momentum in New Zealand’s favor during Sri Lanka’s chase.
Balanced Batting Performance
New Zealand’s batting has been another highlight of the series. In the second T20I, Tim Robinson set the tone with an aggressive 41 off 34 balls, supported by Mark Chapman’s 42 off 29 at No. 3. At the death, wicketkeeper-batsman Daryl Mitchell smashed an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes, pushing New Zealand to a formidable total on a challenging surface.
In the first match, a crucial century partnership between Mitchell and Michael Bracewell ensured New Zealand set a competitive total.
Sri Lanka’s Struggles
Despite flashes of brilliance, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup has faltered under pressure. Pathum Nissanka’s 96 in the first match and Kusal Perera’s 48 in the second showcased individual skill, but the team failed to capitalize, often losing wickets in clusters.
With one match remaining, New Zealand will aim to maintain their dominance, while Sri Lanka looks for a consolation win. The series highlights New Zealand’s clinical performance across both batting and bowling, setting the stage for an exciting finale.