Southampton, June 17:
An outstanding fifth-wicket stand and an even better sixth-wicket partnership electrified a Sri Lanka chase and propelled them to a tight final-over win against New Zealand at The Rose Bowl on Tuesday.
Having arrived at the crease at 55 for 4, with the required rate soon climbing above nine, Nilakshika Silva produced her finest international innings – 54 not out off 37 that saw Sri Lanka to victory with two balls and five wickets to spare.
Nilakshika had serious support in the two partnerships she was involved in. Kavisha Dilhari joined her for a 50-run stand, though New Zealand were still firm favourites when they were parted with 45 still needed off 30 deliveries. Kaushini Nuthyangana then hit a nerveless 24 not out off 14.
New Zealand were scuttled by their own poor catching again. Their batting had also been reined in by a tight Sri Lankan bowling effort, in which the spinners imposed themselves. Sophie Devine and Melie Kerr hit 45 each, but 150 for 6 always seemed a little light on a surface that was good for batting.
The loss means New Zealand must now treat games against England, Scotland, and Ireland as must-wins.
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