14 Aug 2010

Black Caps can't back up big opening win

8:36 am on 14 August 2010

The Sri Lankan cricketers have started their tri-series campaign with a three-wicket win over New Zealand with 55 balls remaining at Dambulla.

The second one day international of the tri-series didn't go the way of the tourists with opener BJ Watling's 55 the Black Caps' best score.

Batting first, they were all out for 192 in the 49th over. Sri Lanka easily reached the target in the 41st over, making 195 for seven.

Nathan McCullum made 36 while the batting stars of the first match thumping of India couldn't back up their heroics - Scott Styris made 24 and captain Ross Taylor 16.

The rookie Kane Williamson was out for another duck with Martin Guptill also out for nought.

Sri Lanka's bowlers Lasith Malinga and Angelo Mathews both got three wicket bags while Kyle Mills was the best for the visitors with four for 41.

But the hosts couldn't get the bonus point so the Black Caps remain on top of the table after two matches, following their opening bonus point win over India.

Upul Tharanga led the way with 70 while Kumar Sangakkara made 48 and Thilan Samaraweera was not out 36.