New Zealand won by five runs; series drawn 1-1

New Zealand clinched a thrilling win in the final T20 against Sri Lanka, defending a modest total in a low-scoring encounter. Chasing just 126, Sri Lanka needed eight runs in the final over but fell short on a tricky, turning pitch. Opener Pathum Nissanka, who anchored the innings with 52 off 51 balls, was caught at long-on off off-spinner Glenn Phillips’ second ball. Matheesha Pathirana was stumped next for a golden duck, and with six runs needed, Maheesh Theekshana was dismissed on the penultimate delivery.

Earlier, New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson claimed a hat-trick, removing Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, and Charith Asalanka in quick succession, finishing with impressive figures of 3-7 from two overs. Phillips also shone with 3-6 from 1.5 overs. New Zealand struggled with the bat, bowled out in 19.3 overs as Sri Lanka’s leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga took 4-17.