Mitchell hay

Sri Lanka: A late batting collapse by Sri Lanka saw New Zealand register a thrilling eight-run victory in the first game of the three-match T20I series at the Bay Oval on Saturday. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis’ 121-run opening partnership went in vain thanks to some great death bowling by the likes of Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, and Zakary Foulkes.

Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to field first in the T20I series opener and asserted dominance over the Black Caps in the opening overs.

Tim Robinson (11) was the first to depart when he was caught and bowled by Binura Fernando in the fourth over. Robinson’s opening partner Rachin Ravindra (8) soon followed him back to the dugout after he edged the ball into the safe hands of Mendis three balls later.