New Zealand Women’s cricket team secured a dominant 7-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Women in the second T20 International, leveling the three-match series 1-1. The hosts successfully chased down a modest target of 114 runs in 18.3 overs at the loss of three wickets.
Sri Lanka Women Struggle with the Bat
Batting first, the Sri Lanka Women’s team faced difficulties in building a strong total and were bowled out for 113 runs in their allotted 20 overs. Despite a few notable contributions, the team fell short of a competitive total.
Top Performers for Sri Lanka Women:
Manudi Nanayakkara – 35 runs
Captain Chamari Athapaththu – 23 runs
Nilakshi de Silva – 20 runs
New Zealand’s bowlers performed exceptionally well, restricting the opposition with disciplined bowling. Bree Illing and Jess Kerr were the standout bowlers, each claiming two wickets to keep the Sri Lankan batting lineup in check.
New Zealand Women’s Confident Chase
In response, New Zealand Women displayed a composed batting performance, reaching the target comfortably in 18.3 overs with seven wickets in hand.
Key Batting Contributions for New Zealand Women:
Captain Suzie Bates – 47 runs (out)
Brooke Halliday – 46 runs (not out)
Suzie Bates led from the front with a crucial 47-run knock before being dismissed, while Brooke Halliday played a steady unbeaten innings of 46 to guide her team to victory.
On the bowling front for Sri Lanka, Anushka Priyadarshani and Sugandika Kumari managed to take one wicket each but couldn’t prevent New Zealand’s dominant chase.
Suzie Bates Named Player of the Match
For her match-winning innings, New Zealand’s captain Suzie Bates was awarded the Player of the Match title. Her leadership and batting played a pivotal role in securing the victory for her team.
Series Stands at 1-1 with Decider Ahead
With this win, New Zealand Women have leveled the series 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting third and final T20 match. Both teams will now aim for a series-clinching victory in the upcoming game.
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