The Black Caps fell just short of a record chase, losing by seven runs in the third T20 against Sri Lanka in Nelson, as Kusal Perera’s explosive 101 off 46 balls propelled the visitors to 218-5.
Despite strong performances by Rachin Ravindra (69 off 39) and Daryl Mitchell (35 off 17), New Zealand’s tail couldn’t close the gap.
Perera’s century, supported by Charith Asalanka’s 46 off 24 in a 100-run partnership, left the Black Caps’ bowlers struggling, with Jacob Duffy (1-30) the sole standout across the attack.
Early promise in the chase, including an 81-run opening stand by Ravindra and Tim Robinson (37 off 21), faltered after key dismissals, and late heroics by Mitchell, including four consecutive sixes, weren’t enough to seal the win.
