Sri Lanka shock New Zealand to leave Women’s T20 World Cup defence on brink
Defending champions New Zealand are on the brink of a group-stage exit from the Women’s T20 World Cup after suffering a shock five-wicket defeat by Sri Lanka in Southampton.
Both teams entered this crucial Group 2 fixture desperately needing a victory following opening-match losses.
It was the Asian side who ultimately held their nerve, successfully chasing down a target of 151 with just two balls remaining.
Sloppy fielding costs defending champions
The White Ferns were once again undone by a woeful fielding display reminiscent of their opening loss against the West Indies.
They put down three vital chances, none more costly than Bree Illing’s dropped catch of Nilakshi de Silva when the batter had scored just a single run.
Fast bowler Illing inexplicably spilled a simple chance at short fine leg off Melie Kerr’s bowling, granting the match-winner a crucial reprieve.
De Silva ruthlessly punished that error, finishing unbeaten on 54 from only 37 deliveries to guide her team home.
De Silva anchors tense chase
The run chase initially looked precarious when the Sri Lankan top order stuttered to 55-4.
However, De Silva stabilised the innings by forging a resilient 50-run partnership with Kaveesha Dilhari.
When Dilhari was run out, the chasing side still required 46 runs off 30 balls, temporarily shifting the momentum back to the tournament favourites.
Despite a known lack of batting depth, Kaushani Nuthyangana provided essential support with an unbeaten 24 to get her side over the line.
Early exit looms for pre-tournament favourites
Earlier in the day, the New Zealanders appeared overly cautious with the bat during the powerplay, limping to 38-1.
Captain Kerr and Sophie Devine eventually accelerated the scoring, striking 45 runs apiece to drag their total to 150-6.
Yet, successive final-over defeats mean the current title holders face a monumental task to reach the knockout stages.
Conversely, Sri Lanka have kept their progression hopes alive after recovering admirably from a heavy opening defeat by tournament hosts England.
