Sri Lanka Shock Defending Champions New Zealand in Historic Women's T20 World Cup Victory

Sri Lanka produced one of the biggest upsets of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, defeating defending champions New Zealand by five wickets in a thrilling Group-stage encounter in Southampton on Tuesday.

Chasing a target of 151, Sri Lanka recovered from a dramatic middle-order collapse to reach 153/5 in 19.4 overs, registering their first-ever victory over New Zealand in Women's T20 World Cup history.

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr opted to bat first. The White Ferns lost Isabella Gaze early but rebuilt through Kerr and Georgia Plimmer, who added 49 runs for the second wicket. Kerr then shared another important stand with veteran Sophie Devine as New Zealand accelerated through the middle overs.

Kerr looked set for a half-century before being dismissed for 45 off 36 balls thanks to an excellent running catch by Kawya Kavindi. Devine continued her impressive form, scoring 45 from just 30 deliveries with four boundaries and a six. Maddy Green chipped in with a brisk 18 as New Zealand posted a competitive 150/6. Kavisha Dilhari was Sri Lanka's standout bowler with figures of 2/35.

Sri Lanka's chase began positively, led by captain Chamari Athapaththu, who struck a quick 27. However, New Zealand fought back strongly through Bree Illing, whose dismissal of Athapaththu triggered a collapse that saw Sri Lanka slide from 45/1 to 55/4.

With the match slipping away, Nilakshika Silva stepped up with a composed and match-winning innings. She joined forces with Dilhari to add a crucial 50-run partnership for the fifth wicket, steadying the chase and keeping Sri Lanka within touching distance of the target.

Even after Dilhari's departure, Silva remained calm under pressure. Alongside Kaushini Nuthyangana, she guided Sri Lanka through the closing stages. Silva finished unbeaten on 54 from 37 balls, including five fours and a six, while Nuthyangana provided valuable support with an unbeaten 24 as Sri Lanka crossed the finish line with two balls to spare.

The result leaves New Zealand facing a difficult road ahead after suffering their second consecutive defeat of the tournament, while Sri Lanka celebrated a landmark victory that could prove pivotal in their campaign.