Sri Lanka defeat New Zealand

Sri Lanka have claimed the remaining 20/20 World Cup semi-final place after defeating New Zealand by 48 runs at Trent Bridge in England today.



Tillakeratne Dilshan made an assured 48 from 37 balls and Mahela Jayawardene struck five fours and a six in a fluent 41 from 29 as Sri Lanka posted 158 for five.



New Zealand collapsed from 64 for 2 to 120 all out from 17 overs against the bowling of Ajantha Mendis who captured three for 9.



The result ensured Sri Lanka finished first in Group ‘F’, winning all three matches in the Super Eight, which means they will play their semi-final at the Oval.



They have joined West Indies, South Africa and Pakistan in the semi-finals, which are slated for Thursday at Trent Bridge and Friday at the Oval.



The West Indies will now await the result of today’s other match between India and South Africa at Trent to know their final position in Group ‘E.



South Africa have four points from two matches and if they win they would top the group with the Windies in second position.



If India win, West Indies and South Africa would be tied on four points each and the group winners would then be decided on Net Run Rate.



South Africa, batting against India, were 56 for one off eight overs.