The Kiwis’ win was helped by Lea Tahuhu’s stunning four-wicket haul and Suzie Bates’ solid half-century, completing a remarkable turnaround from their recent 2-1 ODI series loss.
The decision by New Zealand to bowl first paid off as their opening attack wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batting order.
In the third over alone, the Kiwis’ excellent fielding allowed the captain Chamari Athapaththu (2) to get a run-out. The early break set the stage for a difficult innings for the home team.
Tahuhu further crushed Sri Lanka’s hopes with her excellent bowling prowess as she struck thrice in her first over. At this point, Sri Lanka was struggling and finding it hard to get any momentum.
However, Harshitha Samarawickrama and Hasini Perera’s determined 57-run partnership provided the Sri Lankan team some hope.
Samarawickrama (23), who displayed composure with elegant innings, and Perera, who led the team in scoring with 33 runs, made an effort to right the ship. However, their quick dismissals prevented Sri Lanka’s progress, putting them far short of a respectable total.
Kerr & Devine’s brilliant performance guided Kiwis to a glorious win
Defending a low total of 118, Sri Lanka needed some early breakthroughs. Although, Bates and Bernadine Bezuidenhout (24) had other ideas. A strong 48-run partnership was established by the pair’s strong collaboration, laying the foundation for an easy chase.
In her 59-run partnership with Amelia Kerr (33*), Bates proved her versatility as she changed up her style of play. Bates used cutting-edge strokes like the scoop and paddle as she scored her 26th T20I half-century.
However, after making 52 out of 53 deliveries, Inoka Ranaweera caught herself at long-on and dismissed Bates as she mistimed a shot.
Though, The Kiwi powerhouse wasn’t significantly slowed down by Bates’ departure. Kerr and Sophie Devine took charge of the hunt and led their team to victory without major errors.
Despite a small rain delay, New Zealand stayed unfazed as they steadily scored runs to eventually reach their target total in the 18th over, securing an easy victory and winning the T20I series.
Tahuhu and Bates were identified as the masterminds of New Zealand’s success due to their outstanding performances. Early on, Tahuhu’s four-wicket haul shattered the Sri Lankan batting order, while Bates’ calm innings served as the cornerstone of the successful chase.
SL W vs NZ W: Brief Scores
Sri Lanka: 118/6 (20 overs) Hasini Perera: 33 (36), Harshitha Samarawickrama: 23 (28), Lea Tahuhu: 4/21; New Zealand Women: 119 (18.4 overs) Suzie Bates: 52 (53), Amelia Kerr: 33* (33), Kavisha Dikhari: 1/22
