Kusal Perera stole the show in the third T20I against New Zealand in Nelson with a sensational century. The left-hander blasted a hundred in just 44 balls and set the record for the fastest T20I century by a Sri Lankan.
Perera’s knock, studded with four sixes and 13 fours, helped Sri Lanka post an imposing 218-5. Despite losing the series, Sri Lanka salvaged pride with a nail-biting seven-run win, holding New Zealand to 211-7 in their chase.
“It was a wake-up call. I had to back myself and execute my normal game,” said Perera, reflecting on his incredible innings.
Riding Luck, Breaking Records
Perera’s innings wasn’t without its fair share of luck. He was dropped twice—on 15 and 60—before being dismissed in the penultimate over by Daryl Mitchell. But the southpaw made the most of his chances, shattering multiple records in the process.
Kusal Perera‘s century is now the first international century in the year 2025. Additionally, Perera surpassed Kusal Mendis to claim the record for most 50-plus scores by a Sri Lankan in T20Is, with 16 such innings to his name.
Partnerships Power Sri Lanka’s Total
Perera was well-supported by his teammates, with Charith Asalanka playing a key role. The captain hammered 46 off 24 balls, including five sixes, during a 100-run stand with Perera. Earlier, Avishka Fernando contributed 17 in a quickfire opening partnership of 41.
Sri Lanka’s decision to open with Perera for the first time in the series paid off handsomely. The team raced to 24 runs inside three overs before Pathum Nissanka fell for 14 after an outstanding boundary catch by New Zealand wicketkeeper Mitch Hay.
New Zealand’s Spirited Chase Falls Short
New Zealand gave the chase a spirited attempt, led by Rachin Ravindra’s impressive 69 off 39 balls. Tim Robinson added 37 off 21, while Daryl Mitchell smashed 35 off 17, including four sixes in the final over.
But part-time bowler Charith Asalanka turned the game around with figures of 3-50, including key breakthroughs in the middle overs. His first three overs cost just 25 runs, creating pressure that New Zealand couldn’t overcome in the end.
Asalanka: “We Always Believed We Could Win”
After the match, Asalanka expressed pride in the team’s performance despite the series loss.
“It’s a good win for us. We played good cricket throughout but couldn’t finish games. Finally, we did,” said the Sri Lankan skipper.
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