Sri Lanka produced a memorable upset as they defeated defending champions New Zealand by five wickets in a thrilling contest in Southampton. Chasing a target of 151 on a slow and challenging surface, Sri Lanka recovered from a middle-order collapse to reach 153/5 with two balls to spare.
The foundation for the victory was laid by a disciplined bowling performance that restricted New Zealand to 150/6 in their 20 overs. After a sluggish start from the White Ferns, Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr attempted to revive the innings with aggressive stroke play. The pair added valuable runs during the middle overs, with both batters contributing 45 runs each.
However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained control throughout the innings. Kavisha Dilhari delivered a crucial spell, removing Kerr and Brooke Halliday in quick succession to halt New Zealand’s momentum. Devine’s dismissal shortly after hitting the only six of the innings further dented the defending champions’ hopes, allowing Sri Lanka to limit the total to a manageable score.
In reply, Sri Lanka began positively, led by captain Chamari Athapaththu’s quickfire 27 from 19 balls. However, New Zealand’s spin attack turned the game around as Nensi Patel struck twice and a run-out left Sri Lanka struggling at 55/4.
With the chase in danger of slipping away, Nilakshika Silva and Kavisha Dilhari combined for a vital 50-run partnership. Their stand steadied the innings and kept Sri Lanka in contention. After Dilhari’s departure, Silva continued to anchor the chase with a composed unbeaten half-century.
The equation came down to five runs in the final over. Kaushani Nuthyangana showed remarkable composure under pressure, striking the winning boundary amid worsening rain conditions. Her unbeaten 24 complemented Silva’s match-winning 54 not out as Sri Lanka completed one of their most impressive victories in recent years.
The result gives Sri Lanka a significant boost while handing New Zealand a disappointing defeat.
