ICC Women's T20 World Cup, Group 2, Southampton
New Zealand 150-6 (20 overs): Devine 45 (30); Dilhari 2-35
Sri Lanka 153-5 (19.4 overs): De Silva 54* (37); Patel 2-23
New Zealand's campaign to defend their Women's T20 World Cup title suffered a significant setback following a surprising five-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in Southampton.
Both teams entered the match needing a win after defeats in their opening games. Sri Lanka managed to maintain composure and achieved the target of 151 runs with two balls remaining.
New Zealand's fielding errors once again proved costly. Following multiple dropped catches in their opening loss to West Indies, the White Ferns failed to capitalize on three additional chances, including a critical drop by Bree Illing of Nilakshi de Silva, who would go on to be the match-winner.
Fast bowler Illing dropped a straightforward catch at short fine leg off Melie Kerr's bowling, and De Silva took full advantage, remaining unbeaten on 54 runs from 37 deliveries.
After Sri Lanka's top order faltered to 55-4, De Silva forged a vital 50-run partnership with Kaveesha Dilhari. Dilhari was run out with 46 runs from 30 balls still required.
Given Sri Lanka's limited batting depth, New Zealand appeared favored to win at that point. However, De Silva received crucial support from Kaushani Nuthyangana, who scored an unbeaten 24 to guide Sri Lanka to victory.
The White Ferns' fielding was subpar, and their batting approach was overly cautious. They reached 38-1 during the powerplay before captain Melie Kerr and Sophie Devine each scored 45 runs, helping New Zealand post a total of 150-6.
Following consecutive losses decided in the final over, New Zealand now face the prospect of elimination in the group stage, despite being among the tournament favorites alongside England to finish in the top two of the group. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka remain in contention after recovering from a heavy opening defeat to the hosts.
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