SL vs NZ: New Zealand Level Series With 7-Wicket Victory In 2nd T20I Match

New Zealand was looking to bounce back after having lost the first match of the SL vs NZ T20I series at the hands of Sri Lanka on 14 March, and beat Sri Lanka in a thrilling game on 16 March, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. A match among the Sri Lanka Women’s Tour of New Zealand 2025, this was a great revenge match for the Kiwis. They chased the target of 114 runs, losing 3 wickets and with 9 balls remaining. Suzie Bates was the Player Of The Match for scoring 47.

SL vs NZ, Sri Lanka’s Batting Struggles

The highest scorer for Sri Lanka was Manudi Nanayakkara, who scored 35 runs towards the total, and Nilakshika Silva, who scored 20 runs. The Sri Lankan side was unable to get into a rhythm in this game, and the lack of a big partnership meant that the total was low. Although there were some individual performances, the side was unable to pick up the pace in the later part of the innings, which restricted their chances.

New Zealand’s Dominant Chase

Chasing 113 runs, New Zealand produced a clinical batting display, reaching the mark in a mere 18.3 overs, losing just 3 wickets. The Kiwis were driven by Suzie Bates, who compiled a match-winning 47 runs. Bernadine Bezuidenhout played a similar supporting role, scoring an unbeaten 46 runs, as New Zealand reached the target with ease.

Key Performances: Suzie Bates Shines

Suzie Bates received Player of the Match for her outstanding innings of 47 runs, which led New Zealand to a win. Her consistent innings laid the platform for the chase and assisted by Bernadine Bezuidenhout, they were able to score the target without a hitch.

Match Summary

– Sri Lanka Women: 113/7 in 20 overs
– Top Scorer: Manudi Nanayakkara – 35 runs
– Other Interesting Contributions: Nilakshika Silva – 20 runs
– New Zealand Women: 114/3 in 18.3 overs
– Top Scorer: Suzie Bates – 47 runs
– Unbeaten: Bernadine Bezuidenhout – 46 runs
– Player of the Match: Suzie Bates

The Decider on 18 March 2025

With the series now level at 1-1, the series-decider match of the Sri Lanka Women’s Tour of New Zealand 2025 on 18 March 2025 at the University Oval in Dunedin will be the final deciding game.

Both sides will be keen to win the series, so the game will be one that every fan will look forward to. New Zealand will be hoping to continue their winning momentum, and Sri Lanka will be hoping to steal the series win with a victory in the third game.

A Game-Changer for New Zealand

New Zealand’s 7-wicket win in this game not only tied the series but also gave a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the decider. With good showings by Suzie Bates and Bernadine Bezuidenhout, the Kiwis demonstrated strength and great teamwork. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Women will have to regroup and repair their batting woes to be competitive in the final match on 18 March 2025.

ALSO READ: Rajat Manohar Patidar’s Profile, Net Worth, IPL Salary, Lifestyle, Cars Collection, Lesser-Known Facts And Much More