New Zealand produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat Sri Lanka by 61 runs in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash in Colombo on Wednesday, knocking the co-hosts out of the tournament.

The victory lifts the Black Caps to three points in the Super Eight stage, keeping their semifinal hopes alive ahead of a crucial final clash against England. Sri Lanka, having lost both their Super Eight matches, is eliminated from the competition.

Santner–McConchie rescue act lifts NZ to 168

After being sent in to bat, New Zealand endured a rocky start despite Finn Allen’s early aggression. Allen struck three boundaries in the second over but was dismissed for 23, with Tim Seifert also falling cheaply as Sri Lanka’s bowlers tightened their grip.

Theekshana and Dushmantha Chameera continued to apply pressure, reducing New Zealand to 84/6 in 12.1 overs. At that stage, a modest total looked likely.

However, Cole McConchie and captain Mitchell Santner engineered a remarkable recovery, stitching together a record-breaking partnership for the seventh wicket or lower in T20 World Cup history. Their counter-attacking stand surpassed the previous benchmark set in 2010, turning the momentum firmly in New Zealand’s favour.

Santner led from the front with a powerful 47 off 26 balls, striking four sixes, while McConchie provided vital support as the pair accelerated dramatically in the final five overs. The Black Caps plundered 58 runs from overs 16 to 18 alone, eventually finishing on a competitive 168/7.

Maheesh Theekshana (3/30) and Chameera (3/38) were Sri Lanka’s standout bowlers but could not prevent the late surge.

Ravindra stars with the ball as Sri Lanka collapse

Sri Lanka’s chase never gained momentum. Matt Henry struck on the very first ball, uprooting Pathum Nissanka’s middle stump. He followed up by dismissing Charith Asalanka soon after, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 6/2.

Cautious batting during the powerplay only deepened the pressure, and Rachin Ravindra capitalised brilliantly. The all-rounder removed Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake in quick succession before adding the wicket of skipper Dasun Shanaka.

By the halfway mark, Sri Lanka were 45/4 and in serious trouble. Ravindra continued to dominate, finishing with exceptional figures of 4/27. The spin trio, supported by Santner and Glenn Phillips, ensured the hosts never threatened the target.

Despite brief resistance from Kamindu Mendis (31) and Dunith Wellalage (29), Sri Lanka were restricted to 107/8 in 20 overs.

Semifinal race tightens

With this win, New Zealand move into second place in the group with three points. Pakistan remain in contention and could draw level depending on their final result, potentially bringing net run rate into play.

For Sri Lanka, the defeat ends their campaign on home soil. For New Zealand, the comprehensive performance — highlighted by Santner’s leadership and Ravindra’s all-round brilliance — keeps their semifinal hopes firmly alive.

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