2014 Champions Sri Lanka Knocked Out of T20 World Cup Super 8 Stage

Kathmandu. 2014 winner Sri Lanka has been eliminated from the Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup. Following a massive 61-run defeat against New Zealand in their second match on Wednesday, the home team Sri Lanka's journey to the semi-finals has come to an end.

Batting first, New Zealand set a competitive total of 168 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in the stipulated 20 overs. Mitchell Santner scored the highest 47 runs off 26 balls for New Zealand, while Rachin Ravindra contributed 32 and Cole McConchie an unbeaten 31.

Chasing a target of 169, Sri Lanka managed only 107 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 20 overs. Although Kamindu Mendis scored the highest 31 runs and Dunith Wellalage 29 for Sri Lanka, they could not save the team from defeat.

This is Sri Lanka's second consecutive loss in the Super 8s. Previously, Sri Lanka was defeated by England by 51 runs in their first match. With two consecutive losses and zero points, Sri Lanka is out of the tournament even before the final Super 8 match. Their final match against Pakistan on Saturday will now only be a formality.

However, this victory has strengthened New Zealand's chances of reaching the semi-finals. The comprehensive win has also significantly improved the team's net run rate.