Ferguson's Hat-Trick Secures New Zealand's Lowest T20I Defense

Lockie Ferguson's Hat-Trick Seals New Zealand's Victory in Low-Scoring Thriller

New Zealand's Lockie Ferguson unleashed a devastating spell on Sunday, claiming a hat-trick to help his team defend their lowest-ever target in men's T20I cricket. Facing a modest total of 108 against Sri Lanka in Dambulla, Ferguson's fiery bowling proved decisive in securing a thrilling five-run victory.

After the Kiwis were dismissed for a paltry 108, Ferguson stepped up with a two-over spell that turned the tide of the match. His first victim was Kusal Perera, who edged a yorker to wicketkeeper Mitch Hay on the final ball of the Powerplay.

In the following over, Ferguson struck twice in quick succession. Kamindu Mendis was trapped lbw by a 143kph delivery, while Charith Asalanka was caught down the leg side, handing Ferguson a hat-trick. The 33-year-old became the sixth Kiwi bowler to achieve the feat in T20Is.

Ferguson's hat-trick shattered Sri Lanka's hopes of chasing down the target. Only three Lankan batters managed double-digit scores, as New Zealand's bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Off-spinner Glenn Phillips also chipped in with three wickets for the BlackCaps.

Ferguson's exceptional performance earned him figures of 2-0-7-3, while Phillips finished with 3-1-13-3. The victory marked New Zealand's first in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka.

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