NZ vs SL: Kusal Perera's record-breaking century helps Sri Lank end 17-yr-long losing streak in New Zealand in T20Is

Riding on Kusal Perera's maiden T20I century Sri Lanka ended their 17-year-long losing streak on Kiwi soil with a thrilling seven-run win over New Zealand in the third T20I on January 2, 2025. Notably, it was Sri Lanka first win in New Zealand in the shortest format since 2006. With this Sri Lanka signed off the three-match series with a consolation win having lost the first two encounters.

Kusal Perera's explosive 101 off 46 balls saw Sri Lanka posting a colossal total of 218/5. In reply, New Zealand set up a thrilling chase but unfortunately ended up on a losing side as they were restricted to 211/7 despite Daryl Mitchell's blistering 39-ball 69.

Notably, Kusal Perera scripted history as he smashed the fastest T20I century by a Sri Lankan in just 44 balls. Not just this, he also surpassed Kusal Mendis' record for the most 50-plus scores in T20Is by a Sri Lankan, with this being his 16th such innings.

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Kusal Perera's explosive century powers Sri Lanka to consolation win over NZ in 3rd T20I

Sent into bat under overcast conditions, Sri Lanka faced early setbacks with the loss of both openers within the powerplay. However, Kusal Perera ignited the innings with a blistering counter-attack. He blazed his way to a record-breaking century off just 44 balls, the fastest T20I hundred by a Sri Lankan. Perera's explosive innings included 13 fours and 4 sixes, propelling Sri Lanka to a challenging total.

Charith Asalanka played a perfect second fiddle with 46-run knock which helped Sri Lanka post an imposing total of 218/5, their second-highest T20I score. Despite a somewhat subdued finish in the final overs, Perera's exceptional performance laid a strong foundation for the team.

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New Zealand run out of steam in big chase

Chasing a stiff target of 219, the New Zealand openers, Tom Robinson (37) and Rachin Ravindra (69), got off to a blistering start. Their 81-run partnership in the powerplay put immense pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers and kept the hosts firmly in the chase.

Sri Lanka staged a strong comeback, securing crucial wickets at key moments. Despite conceding runs, Charith Asalanka's bowling performance, including three wickets for 50 runs, proved pivotal in dismissing key New Zealand batters. Daryl Mitchell's quick 35 runs kept New Zealand's hopes alive, but the lack of support from the middle order ultimately resulted in a seven-run defeat.