Bengaluru: New Zealand bounced back to victory, ending a streak of four consecutive defeats by convincingly defeating Sri Lanka by 5 wickets. This win significantly strengthens their position in the ICC World Cup 2023, placing them in fourth on the points table and virtually eliminating Pakistan from semifinal contention.
In pursuit of a modest target of 172, the Black Caps efficiently chased it down in just 23.2 overs. This dominant performance was crucial for New Zealand’s semifinal aspirations. Devon Conway (45) and Rachin Ravindra (42) showcased impressive batting, forming an 86-run opening partnership, while Daryll Mitchell’s contribution of 43 off 31 balls sealed the victory.
Earlier in the day, Trent Boult and his teammates played a pivotal role in restricting Sri Lanka to a meager total of 171 in 46.4 overs at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Boult claimed three wickets, with Lockie Ferguson, Mitchell Santer, and Rachin Ravindra taking two each for the Kiwis.
Despite Kusal Perera’s rapid fifty in 27 balls and Maheesh Theekshana’s unbeaten 38, the remaining Sri Lankan batting order failed to deliver, leading to their downfall.