Matt Henry delivered a breathtaking moment during the New Zealand vs. Sri Lanka ODI series in Auckland on Saturday. The remarkable catch came in the 30th over when Michael Bracewell bowled an off-spin delivery that Charith Asalanka smashed toward long-off. A video was posted by New Zealand’s official account on social media.
Positioned perfectly, Henry showed incredible awareness by leaping, tossing the ball into the air, stepping outside the boundary, and then returning inside to complete the catch. This reminds us Suryakumar Yadav’s iconic catch during the T20 World Cup final to dismiss David Miller.
New Zealand in deep trouble after Sri Lanka strikes early wickets
Sri Lanka, batting first, posted a solid total of 290/8. Opener Pathum Nissanka anchored the innings with 66 runs, while Kusal Mendis contributed 54 to keep the momentum going.
Janith Liyanage also impressed with a half-century, rounding off a commendable team effort. Despite New Zealand clinching the series with a 2-0 lead in the three-match contest, Sri Lanka’s batting displayed resilience.
Matt Henry was the standout bowler for New Zealand, claiming 4 wickets, while Mitchell Santner chipped in with 2 crucial scalps.
Chasing 291, New Zealand struggled from the outset, losing five wickets for just 21 runs. At 92/7 after 19 overs, they found themselves in deep trouble. Mark Chapman provided some resistance with a half-century, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers were in stellar form. Asitha Fernando led the attack with 3 wickets, supported by Maheesh Theekshana, who took 2.
As it stands, Sri Lanka looks poised to secure a consolation victory in what has been an action-packed series.
