Nilakshika Silva produced a match-winning unbeaten half-century as Sri Lanka Women chased down a competitive target of 151 to defeat New Zealand Women by five wickets in Group B of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
After being asked to bat first, New Zealand Women posted a challenging 150/6 in 20 overs, thanks largely to captain Amelia Kerr and experienced all-rounder Sophie Devine, who both struck 45 runs. However, Sri Lanka’s batting unit held its nerve during the chase, reaching 153/5 in 19.4 overs to secure a memorable victory with two balls to spare.
New Zealand Build Solid Platform
New Zealand’s innings got off to a shaky start when wicketkeeper Isabella Gaze departed for just 4 in the opening over. The early setback was quickly stabilized by Georgia Plimmer (18) and skipper Amelia Kerr, who anchored the innings through the powerplay.
Kerr looked in complete control, scoring 45 off 36 balls with five boundaries, while Sophie Devine matched her contribution with a fluent 45 from 30 deliveries, including four fours and a six. Their partnership provided the backbone of New Zealand’s innings and lifted the side beyond the 100-run mark.
Late contributions from Maddy Green (18 off 13)* and Jess Kerr (6 off 6)* helped New Zealand finish strongly at 150/6, a total that appeared competitive on a surface offering something for both batters and bowlers.
For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the standout bowler with figures of 2/35, while Mithali Ayodhya, Sugandika Kumari, Chamari Athapaththu, and Nimasha Meepage claimed one wicket each.
Sri Lanka Recover After Early Wobbles
Chasing 151, Sri Lanka suffered an early blow when opener Vishmi Gunaratne fell for 17 after showing promising intent. Captain Chamari Athapaththu responded aggressively, striking 27 off 19 balls with four boundaries and a six to keep the required rate under control.
New Zealand clawed their way back into the contest through regular wickets. Athapaththu, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Hasini Perera, and Kavisha Dilhari all departed before Sri Lanka could completely take charge of the chase.
At 98/5, the match was finely balanced, with New Zealand sensing an opportunity to defend their total.
Nilakshika Silva Turns the Game
With pressure mounting, Nilakshika Silva delivered one of the finest innings of the tournament so far. The right-hander remained unbeaten on 54 from 37 balls, striking five boundaries and one six while maintaining a strike rate close to 146.
Silva found an ideal partner in wicketkeeper Kaushani Nuthyangana, who played a fearless supporting role with 24 not out off 14 deliveries. The pair stitched together a crucial unbeaten partnership that steadily shifted momentum toward Sri Lanka.
As the target drew closer, Silva accelerated expertly, ensuring there would be no late drama. Sri Lanka crossed the finish line at 153/5 in 19.4 overs, completing a well-judged chase.
Bowling Effort Falls Short for New Zealand
Despite defending a respectable total, New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to contain Sri Lanka in the closing stages.
Nensi Patel was the most effective bowler with 2/23 from four overs, while Bree Illing picked up one wicket. However, the inability to break the Silva-Nuthyangana partnership ultimately proved costly. Sri Lanka Women
Player of the Match
🏆 Nilakshika Silva (Sri Lanka Women)
54 off 37 balls (5 fours, 1 six)*
Her calm, unbeaten knock under pressure guided Sri Lanka to a vital Group B victory and earned her the Player of the Match award.
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