New Zealand pulled off a stunning heist to take a 1-0 lead in the series as they beat Sri Lanka by 8 runs in the first T20i.

Chasing the total of 172 posted by the hosts, Sri Lanka began strongly with openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis capitalizing on the Powerplay to rack up 56 runs in the first six overs.

Even after the fielding restrictions were lifted, New Zealand struggled to contain the scoring. Mitchell Santner was the only bowler who managed to do the holding job and the two Lankan openers managed to see him off. In search of some inspiration, Mitchell Santner turned to Jacob Duffy and he did not disappoint.

Sri Lanka were in complete control for the first 13 overs of the chase, sitting comfortably at 120/0 with all 10 wickets intact. With just 53 runs needed from the final 7 overs, they seemed to have the game by the scruff of the neck. 

However, New Zealand had other ideas, staging a remarkable comeback to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Earlier in the game, the toss fell Sri Lanka’s way and they opted to bowl first. It was a tale of two halves with the visitors dominating the first half as they chipped away at the wickets to reduce New Zealand to 65/5. 

Michael Bracewell’s arrival changed the complexion as he provided much-needed impetus to the Kiwi innings. He stitched a 105-run stand with Daryl Mitchell to help New Zealand recover and get to 172. 

The new batters found it difficult to settle, but with Nissanka still at the crease, Sri Lanka’s hopes remained alive. However, once he was dismissed, the chase unravelled. 

None of the incoming batters could take the responsibility to see the side home. Duffy’s game-changing over proved to be the turning point and Matt Henry and Zakary Foulkes capitalized on the momentum, backing each other brilliantly to pull off a remarkable win. 

From the position at the end of the 13th over when Sri Lanka needed 53 runs with all 10 wickets in hand, they managed only 44 runs while losing 8 wickets.

--With agencies inputs