Twitter Reactions: Pathum Nissanka’s 90 goes in vain as New Zealand register dramatic last-over win in first T20I

New Zealand Cricket Team.
(Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)

New Zealand eked out a thrilling eight-run win in the first T20I, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series against Sri Lanka at Mount Maunganui on Saturday, December 28.

Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to field, expecting some help from the Bay Oval pitch. The decision paid off early as the Sri Lankans reduced the hosts to 65 for 5 in the 10th over. Binura Fernando and Wanindu Hasaranga were the star performers with the ball, exploiting the conditions.

However, a magnificent 105-run stand between Daryl Mitchell (62 off 42) and Michael Bracewell (59 off 33) turned the tide for the Kiwis. The duo played some aggressive strokes, punishing loose deliveries and running hard between the wickets. Their partnership helped New Zealand post a total of 172 for 8, thanks to several boundaries in the death overs.

The Lankan Lions began the chase in style, with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis (46 off 36) putting in a strong 121-run opening stand. The duo looked good to seal the game as they were 121 for no loss in the 14th over. However, the 14th over, bowled by Jacob Duffy saw him dismiss Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Kamindu Mendis in quick succession, triggering a collapse.

Meanwhile, Nissanka held one end but lacked support from the middle and lower order. Matt Henry’s bowling at the death and Zak Foulkes’ memorable final over ensured New Zealand sealed a dramatic win. Duffy, who finished with figures of 3 for 21, was named Player of the Match for his game-changing spell. Nissanka’s knock of 90 from 60 balls went in vain as he couldn’t finish the game for his side.

Here’s how ‘X’ users reacted to New Zealand’s win over Sri Lanka in first T20I:

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