New Zealand’s 61-run thrashing of Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8s at R. Premadasa Stadium showcased resilience under fire. Captain Mitchell Santner, after his match-saving 47, openly discussed the early onslaught that left Kiwis reeling at 75/3 and then 84/6.
Santner and Cole McConchie (31*) scripted a vital 84-run stand for the seventh wicket, lifting the total to a challenging 168/7. Sri Lanka managed only 107/8 chasing, succumbing to New Zealand’s spin attack.
“Opening overs were brutal; Sri Lanka bowled us into a corner,” Santner noted. “Not ideal at 84 for three quick wickets. But with Cole, we aimed to stretch to 140, building for the back end. Hitting 160+ exceeded hopes.”
Reflecting on personal performance, he said, “Last match was poor – 5 off 10. Here, patience was gold. Early conditions were tough; settling in unlocked scoring. We were both jittery but grew into it.”
The skipper analyzed the surface. “Looked batsman-friendly at toss, but spun sharply – beyond predictions. Bigger side helped spinners control and extract turn for boundaries. Cole shone brightly.”
New Zealand eyes semi-final glory against England on February 27. “No doubting their quality,” Santner warned. “Pitch type matters hugely. If similar spin, expect a fierce contest.” This victory boosts morale, proving adaptability on turning tracks.