NZ vs SL Review: Kiwis boost their semifinal chances after a convincing win
New Zealand clinched the 41st clash of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at Bangalore’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium to virtually advance to the semis.
Sri Lanka made a promising beginning with Kusal Perera at the helm, despite an early departure of his partner. Perera exhibited authority, steering the innings with finesse, setting a solid tone for the Sri Lankan squad.
Trent Boult and Tim Southee wreaked havoc on Sri Lanka’s top order, leaving them in disarray. Despite Perera’s lightning-fast fifty in just 22 balls, Ferguson swiftly ended his onslaught. Just when New Zealand anticipated a quick finish with their pacers, the resilient lower order displayed grit, adding a valuable 58 runs for the last two wickets, refusing to surrender easily.
In pursuit of 172, New Zealand kickstarted their innings with a blazing start, courtesy of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra’s sturdy partnership. Despite their promising contributions, both fell short of the half-century mark, with Conway departing first, followed swiftly by Ravindra. Daryll Mitchell, however, unleashed a relentless assault on the Sri Lankan bowlers.
Mitchell, before his dismissal at 43, efficiently paved the way for New Zealand’s victory, leaving them needing a mere 10 runs. Glenn Phillips, at the crease, sealed the deal with consecutive boundaries. Angelo Mathews emerged as Sri Lanka’s standout bowler, claiming 2 crucial wickets. The defeat not only knocked Sri Lanka out of the semi-final race but also cast a shadow over their automatic selection for the Champions Trophy.
Top Performers of the Match
Kusal Perera (51 of 28)
In the face of New Zealand’s formidable bowling lineup, Kusal Perera stood out, seemingly facing a distinct set of challenges. His half-century, achieved at a striking rate of 181, showcased his dominance. Perera cleared the boundary ropes nine times, with two shots sending the ball soaring over them in an impressive display of his batting prowess.
Trent Boult (3/37, 10 overs)
Trent Boult created a stir in the Sri Lankan batting lineup, claiming three key dismissals while maintaining an economy rate below 4 runs per over. His victims included Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Charith Asalanka, never allowing them to find their rhythm at the crease.
What next?
Going ahead New Zealand have almost secured their semi-final berth, leaving Pakistan an arduous task if they were to dethrone them. Sri Lanka would be biting their fingers as they have lost a direct qualification for the Champions Trophy 2025.
