NZ vs SL [WATCH]: Maheesh Theekshana lights up Seddon Park with a superb hat-trick within the Hamilton ODI

Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana delivered a exceptional efficiency within the second ODI in opposition to New Zealand at Seddon Park, Hamilton, on Wednesday, January 8.

Theekshana’s hat-trick, achieved throughout two overs, proved to be the spotlight of a rain-affected sport that was decreased to 37 overs per aspect. Changing Lahiru Kumara, Theekshana made a right away influence within the rain-shortened 37-over sport. He initially broke a threatening 112-run stand by dismissing Mark Chapman within the twentieth over. Nevertheless, it was within the thirty fifth and last overs of New Zealand’s innings that Theekshana really turned the sport. Theekshana’s hat-trick wasn’t only a show of ability but additionally tactical acumen. After a expensive earlier over, he adjusted his tempo and trajectory masterfully. The primary ball of his seventh over conceded a boundary, however he rapidly tailored, delivering exact carrom balls and off-breaks to restrict the batters.

Maheesh Theekshana beautiful ODI hat-trick in opposition to New Zealand

The sequence started within the thirty fifth over when he dismissed Mitchell Santner, who tried to clear the boundary however was caught brilliantly by Chamindu Wickramasinghe at deep cowl. On the very subsequent ball, Nathan Smith tried an aggressive stroke in opposition to a tossed-up carrom ball however edged it excessive over level, the place Kamindu Mendis accomplished a diving catch after overlaying important floor.

With the hat-trick ball, Theekshana delivered one other carrom ball to Matt Henry, who sliced it in the direction of further cowl. Nuwanidu Fernando, fielding in its place, sprinted from extensive long-off and slid to take an excellent catch, sealing the hat-trick. Theekshana’s variations and intelligent use of the carrom ball in stress moments not solely dismantled New Zealand’s decrease order but additionally highlighted his potential to outthink the batters. This distinctive feat was essential in shifting the momentum of the match in Sri Lanka’s favour.

Right here’s the video:

#MaheeshTheekshana‘s hat-trick restricts the #Blackcaps to 255/9. 💥#DidYouKnow: He’s the 7️⃣th participant from 🇱🇰 to take an #ODI hat-trick! 👏#SonySportsNetwork #NZvSL pic.twitter.com/TiWTn2BdIW

— Sony Sports activities Community (@SonySportsNetwk) January 8, 2025

Additionally WATCH: Charith Asalanka’s beautiful catch sends Rachin Ravindra packing within the 2nd ODI

Theekshana joins an elite membership of Sri Lankan bowlers

With this feat, Theekshana turned the seventh Sri Lankan to assert an ODI hat-trick, following legends like Lasith Malinga, Chaminda Vaas and Wanindu Hasaranga. Notably, Theekshana’s hat-trick is the primary in ODIs since Wessly Madhevere achieved the milestone in 2023. Sri Lankan cricket has a wealthy historical past of hat-tricks, with Malinga recording three and Vaas two within the 50-over format. Theekshana’s achievement cements his place amongst these greats and provides to Sri Lanka’s fame for producing world-class spinners.

New Zealand’s batting innings

After being put in to bat beneath lights, New Zealand posted a aggressive complete of 255/9 of their allotted 37 overs. The hosts have been powered by half-centuries from Rachin Ravindra (79 off 63) and Mark Chapman (62 off 52). Nevertheless, Theekshana and Hasaranga (2/39) saved the Kiwi batting in verify throughout the center and loss of life overs. New Zealand had regarded set for a complete nearer to 270 however have been restricted due to Theekshana’s brilliance within the last overs. As Sri Lanka seeks to degree the collection, Theekshana’s efficiency serves as a reminder of their potential to provide match-turning moments, even in opposition to top-tier opponents.