5 key highlights behind Sri Lanka's 83-run win over Netherlands

Kingma gets Netherlands off to good start

Netherlands have been one of the better powerplay bowling sides in the tournament and again started with the ball after opting to field. Vivian Kingma bowled two tight overs upfront, dismissing Pathum Nissanka on the second ball of the match. Sri Lanka were 19/1 in four overs. 

Mendis keeps Sri Lanka going 

Kusal Mendis kept Sri Lanka’s innings afloat with his 46 off 29 balls at the top of the order. He targetted Kingma’s third over and then Paul van Meekeren to take advantage of the last two powerplay overs. After a slow start, Sri Lanka are 45/2 in the powerplay. When Mendis got out, he had nearly 55% of Sri Lanka’s runs.

Asalanka finishes on a high

Charith Asalanka’s high-intent finish (46 off 21 balls) lifted Sri Lanka to 201/6. The left-hander smashed five sixes and a four in his knock which came at a strike rate of 219. As a result, Sri Lanka scored 77 runs in the final five overs. 

Levitt gets Netherlands off to flierLike with the bowl, Netherlands started on top with the bat as well. But yet again, it only lasted for four overs. They were 44/0 after four overs with Michael Levitt smashing 30 off 18 balls. Max ODowd, his opening partner got out in the fifth over. Leviitt followed the suit in the subsequent over and it was the beginning of the end for the Netherlands. 

The Dutch capitulate

From 45/0, the Dutch capitulated to 82/7 and were eventually bowled out for 118 in 16.4 overs. Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga picked two wickets each for 12 and 25 runs respectively. Nuwan Thushara added to Netherlands misery with his 3/24. Sri Lanka won by 83 runs to break the duck in their wins column before flying back home. 

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