NZ vs SL 1st T20I Results

11:39 AM IST The captain of New Zealand, Mitchell Santner reflects on the match, calling it a 'game of two halves.' He credits Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell for their crucial partnership, which turned the tide after a shaky start caused by Binura Fernando's impressive bowling. Santner acknowledges the challenge posed by Sri Lankan batters Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka, who played well. He explains their strategy of focusing on taking wickets with aggressive bowling and field placements when the run rate was steady at around eight. Santner praises Jacob Duffy for his game-changing performance, securing the win for New Zealand.

11:38 AM IST Earlier in the game, the toss fell way Sri Lanka's way and they opted to bowl first. It was a tale of two halves with tourists 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. For Sri Lanka, Binura Fernando was the most economical with figures of 2 for 22 from his 4 overs while Matheesha Pathirana had a night to forget, going for 60 runs from his 4 overs.

11:36 AM IST Sri Lanka's chase 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, striking thrice in the 14th over.

10:26 AM IST Right then, we couldn’t have asked for a more thrilling start to Sri Lanka's white-ball tour of New Zealand. A match that seesawed throughout both innings saw New Zealand stage remarkable comebacks in the latter halves to clinch victory. If this game is any indication of what’s in store for the rest of the series, we are in for an exhilarating ride. The second T20I will also take place here in Mount Maunganui on Monday, 30th December. The first ball will be bowled at 6.15 am GMT but as always, you can join us much earlier for the build-up. See you then. Cheers!

10:21 AM IST Sri Lanka's captain Charith Asalanka expresses disappointment with his team’s performance, stating they should have done better. He praises Pathum Nissanka for batting well but emphasizes that others need to take responsibility for the loss. Asalanka believes improvements are needed in bowling and fielding, acknowledging that during the opposition's innings, the target seemed achievable. He remains focused on making a strong comeback in the next game.

10:21 AM IST Jacob Duffy is the PLAYER OF THE MATCH for his game-changing over. He expresses joy over the team's victory. He highlights the importance of breaking a big opening partnership by strategically bringing up the mid-wicket fielder, which proved successful. Duffy adds that after playing extensively in Asia, it feels great to return to familiar conditions with pace and bounce.