New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 61 runs in Colombo during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka’s elimination from the T20 World Cup 2026 was marked by another weak batting display, particularly against the spinners. Rachin Ravindra starred with 4 wickets for 27 runs and contributed 32 runs, leading his team to their first victory in the Super 8.
Batting first, New Zealand lost opener Tim Seifert early for 8 runs. Finn Allen added 23 runs off just 13 balls which, combined with Rachin’s 32 runs, provided some stability. Glenn Phillips scored 18 runs off 18 balls before getting out in the 10th over to Dushmantha Chameera.
Maheesh Theekshana took two wickets in one over, dismissing Rachin (32) and Mark Chapman (0) in the 12th over. Dunith Wellalage also trapped Daryl Mitchell for 3 runs, leaving New Zealand at a precarious 84 for 6. However, Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie rescued the innings with a partnership of 84 runs for the 7th wicket, helping the team finish at 168 for 7. Santner was the top scorer with 47 runs off 26 balls.
Theekshana and Chameera each took three wickets, proving to be key bowlers for Sri Lanka. In their chase of 169, Pathum Nissanka was dismissed without scoring, while Kusal Mendis managed only 11 runs off 22 balls.
Charith Asalanka fell for 5 runs, and Pavan Rathnayake made 10 runs. With early wickets falling, Kamindu Mendis scored 31 and Dunith Wellalage added 29, but it was not enough as they ended up at 107 for 8.
Rachin Ravindra topped the bowling charts for New Zealand with four wickets, while Matt Henry provided good support with two wickets.
Full Scorecard – Sri Lanka vs New Zealand ICC T20 World Cup 2026, February 25
New Zealand 168 for 7 (Santner 47, Ravindra 32, Theekshana 3-30, Chameera 3-38) beat Sri Lanka 107 for 8 (Kamindu 31, Wellalage 29, Ravindra 4-27, Henry 2-3) by 61 runs
Match Highlights & Key Moments
New Zealand’s comeback was remarkable after they slid to 84 for 6. The partnership between Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie was crucial, adding vital runs in the final overs and giving the team a competitive total. What seemed a low score transformed into a winning one due to their late efforts.
Sri Lanka struggled throughout their innings, unable to establish a strong partnership and losing wickets early. Rachin Ravindra’s four wickets devastated the middle order, sealing Sri Lanka’s fate and confirming their exit from the tournament.
Player of the Match
Rachin Ravindra earned the Player of the Match award for his efforts, scoring 32 runs and taking 4 wickets.
What This Result Means for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026
New Zealand’s win significantly boosts their chances in the Super 8, improving their net run rate. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, is out of the tournament following another inadequate batting display.
FAQs – Yesterday’s Sri Lanka vs New Zealand ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Q1: Who won yesterday’s Sri Lanka vs New Zealand match?
A1: New Zealand won by 61 runs on February 25, 2026.
Q2: Who was the Player of the Match?
A2: Rachin Ravindra was named the Player of the Match for his all-round performance (32 runs & 4 wickets).
Q3: What was the final score of yesterday’s match?
A3: New Zealand 168 for 7; Sri Lanka 107 for 8.
Q4: What’s the next fixture for New Zealand and Sri Lanka in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8?
A4: New Zealand will face England on February 27 in Colombo, and Sri Lanka will play Pakistan on February 28 in Pallekele.
