Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, 46th Match, Super Eights, Group 2 at Colombo, February 25, 2026 Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first. Their innings was marked by a solid partnership between Avishka Fernando and Pathum Nissanka. Fernando scored 42 runs off 36 balls while Nissanka contributed 35 runs off 33 deliveries. The duo added 74 runs for the second wicket, which laid the foundation for Sri Lanka's total of 156/5. New Zealand's chase was led by Finn Allen who top-scored with 63 runs off 48 balls. However, their efforts were hampered by the Sri Lankan bowlers who kept a tight grip on the game. The introduction of spinners by Sri Lanka proved to be crucial as New Zealand struggled to rotate the strike. The turning point in the match came when Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga dismissed Devon Conway for 16 runs, reducing New Zealand to 82/3. Although Allen continued to bat well, he was eventually run out attempting a second run, which further dented New Zealand's chances. Sri Lanka's bowlers then took control of the game, restricting New Zealand to just 124/7 and securing a comfortable 32-run victory. Hasaranga finished with figures of 2-24 while Maheesh Theekshana picked up 1-20 in his four overs. The win has lifted Sri Lanka's chances of progressing to the semi-finals, where they will face stiff competition from other top teams.#Sri_Lanka #Finn_Allen #Devon_Conway #Colombo #Pathum_Nissanka #Wanindu_Hasaranga #Maheesh_Theekshana #New_Zealand #Avishka_Fernando
