In a low-scoring encounter at Dambulla, Lockie Ferguson’s exceptional bowling led New Zealand to a thrilling victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I, where he achieved a remarkable hat-trick. The match ended with New Zealand defending a modest total of 108 runs, winning by just five runs and levelling the series at 1-1.
Lockie Ferguson’s remarkable hat-trick
Ferguson’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. He dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting unit, taking three wickets in his two overs for just seven runs. His hat-trick began with the dismissal of Kusal Perera, who edged a well-placed delivery to Mitchell Hay. Ferguson continued his onslaught by trapping Kamindu Mendis lbw with a rapid yorker and then caught Charith Asalanka off a leg-side edge, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 34 for 4.
Despite sustaining a calf injury that limited his bowling, Ferguson’s early strikes were crucial in setting the tone for New Zealand’s defense of their low total.
Here’s the video:
Hat-trick! 🤯
Lockie Ferguson has just brought this game to life with a crazy couple of overs. 🔥#SLvNZonFanCode pic.twitter.com/8wcOpjpiLQ
— FanCode (@FanCode) November 10, 2024
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Glenn Phillips shines in the final over
With Ferguson unable to bowl further, Glenn Phillips stepped up to deliver a dramatic final over. Sri Lanka needed eight runs to win, and Phillips took three wickets in that over, including the key dismissal of Pathum Nissanka, who had anchored the innings with a solid 52 runs. Phillips’ efforts helped restrict Sri Lanka to 103 all out, sealing New Zealand’s victory.
Match Summary
- New Zealand: 108 all out (Robinson 30; Hasaranga 4-17)
- Sri Lanka: 103 all out (Nissanka 52; Ferguson 3-7)
- Result: New Zealand won by 5 runs
This match marked a significant achievement for Ferguson as he became the sixth New Zealand bowler to claim a T20I hat-trick. The victory not only showcased New Zealand’s resilience but also highlighted their bowling depth as they prepare for the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka.