New Zealand Defeats Sri Lanka to Stay in T20 World Cup Race

Feb 25, 2026

64 min

Feb 25, 2026 18:30

New Zealand knock Sri Lanka out of T20 World Cup

## New Zealand's Victory

New Zealand delivered a decisive 61-run victory over Sri Lanka in the T20 World Cup, effectively knocking the co-hosts out of the tournament. The match took place in Colombo on February 25, 2026, where New Zealand set a target of 169 runs.

## Sri Lanka's Struggles

Sri Lanka's chase faltered early, losing four wickets for just 29 runs, and eventually ending at 107-8. Kamindu Mendis and Dunith Wellalage were the only players to offer some resistance with scores of 31 and 29, respectively.

## Key Performances

Rachin Ravindra was instrumental for New Zealand, taking four wickets, while Matt Henry added two more. Earlier, New Zealand had recovered from a mid-innings slump, thanks to an 84-run partnership between Cole McConchie and captain Mitchell Santner.

## New Zealand's Batting Revival

Despite being reduced to 84-6, New Zealand managed to post 168-7. Santner scored 47 off 26 balls, and McConchie remained unbeaten on 31. Maheesh Theekshana initially troubled New Zealand with his bowling, taking 3-9 in his first three overs.

## Implications for the Tournament

New Zealand's win keeps their semi-final hopes alive, though they may need to secure a victory against England in their next match. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's back-to-back losses in the Super Eight stage have ended their campaign.

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