Rachin Ravindra delivered a match-winning all-round performance to guide New Zealand to a commanding 61-run victory over Sri Lanka in their Super Eight clash of the ICC T20 World Cup on February 25 in Colombo.
During the post-match presentation, Ravindra reflected on the win and said, “It’s always pleasing to take a win like that. Amazing, specially at their home, awesome performance. I guess understanding that slower was better, and a few stats were put out there… Under 85ks. Santner is obviously a master at that craft, so we decided slower is the plan.”
Ravindra made an impact throughout the game. With the bat, he scored 32 off 22 balls and helped stabilise the innings. With the ball, he was equally effective, picking up four crucial wickets in his four overs while conceding just 27 runs. His spell broke the back of Sri Lanka’s batting line-up and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Speaking about playing in Sri Lanka, Ravindra said, “The Sri Lanka crowd is fantastic… Reminds you why you play the game. There was a period where they were screaming ‘New Zealand, New Zealand’, so credit to them.”
Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive 168/7 in their 20 overs. Captain Mitchell Santner led from the front with 47, while Ravindra supported him well. Cole McConchie added a crucial unbeaten 31, and Finn Allen chipped in with 23. For Sri Lanka, Maheesha Theekshana and Dushmantha Chameerawere the standout bowlers, picking up three wickets each.
In reply, New Zealand restricted Sri Lanka to 107/8. KaminduMendis (31) and Dunith Wellalage (29) showed some resistance, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to build partnerships and kept losing wickets at regular intervals.
New Zealand will next face England on February 27 in Colombo.
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