Maheesh Theekshana Creates History with ODI Hat-Trick Against New Zealand

On Wednesday, during the second match of the three-game series against New Zealand in Hamilton, Sri Lanka star bowler Maheesh Theeekshana became the seventh bowler to take a hat-trick in ODI cricket. The hat-trick came across two overs in a rain-affected game in Seddon Park.

Theekshana has taken a hat-trick in two overs, in the 35th over of the last two balls he dismissed the New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner and Nathan Smith. When he returned to bowl the first ball of the 37th over he dismissed Henry to complete his hat-trick.

Due to the rain, the match was reduced to 37 overs each. Theekshana bowled brilliantly, taking 4 wickets for 44 runs in his 8 overs. Despite Theekshana's efforts, New Zealand has scored 255 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 37 overs.

Sri Lankan Bowlers with ODI Hat-Tricks: A Complete Record

This moment was very special for Sri Lanka, as Theekshana became the first Sri Lankan in six years to take an ODI hat-trick. New Zealand's innings were powered by Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman. Ravindra scored 79 off 63 balls, whereas Chapman added 62 off 52 balls.

Sri Lanka's top order was collapsed by the New Zealand bowling attack. The visitors were struggling at 22 for 4 within the first 5 overs.

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