New Zealand become the First Team to Secure Series Victory in 2025
New Zealand has secured its first series win of 2025, clinching the T20I series against Sri Lanka 2-1 despite losing the final match by seven runs. In the third T20I held at Saxton Oval, Nelson, Sri Lanka posted a formidable score of 218/5, led by Kusal Perera’s explosive century, which he achieved in just 44 balls. This marked Perera’s maiden T20I century and made him only the third Sri Lankan to reach this milestone.
New Zealand, needing a record chase, started strong with Rachin Ravindra scoring 69 runs off 39 balls. However, they ultimately fell short, finishing at 211/7. Charith Asalanka’s all-round performance was pivotal for Sri Lanka, as he took three wickets and contributed significantly to the team’s effort.
Despite the loss in the final match, New Zealand had already secured the series with wins in the first two T20Is by eight and 45 runs respectively. The victory for Sri Lanka serves as a consolation but highlights their potential moving forward. The teams will now shift focus to a three-match ODI series starting Sunday in Wellington.