Sri Lanka into the semis

World Twenty20: Sri Lanka maintained their winning streak to seal a place in the semi-finals of the World Twenty20 with a 48…

World Twenty20:Sri Lanka maintained their winning streak to seal a place in the semi-finals of the World Twenty20 with a 48-run victory over New Zealand at Trent Bridge.

Kumar Sangakkara's side went into their final Super Eights clash unbeaten but defeat to the Black Caps would still have spelt the end of their participation due to inferior run-rate.

But a disciplined bowling performance, not least from Ajantha Mendis, who took two wickets in an over on his way to three for nine, ensured their total of 158 for five was more than enough.

Only Martin Guptill (43 from 33 balls) really threatened before Sanath Jayasuriya tempted him into one big shot too many and they capitulated for 109 all out.

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Tillekeratne Dilshan had earlier got the Sri Lanka innings off to a fine start with a 37-ball 48, an innings curiously short of the inventive paddles and sweeps he has pioneered in the competition.

Dilshan's opening partner, 39-year-old Jayasuriya, fell for a golden duck to the third ball of the innings but Sangakkara (35) and Mahela Jayawardene (41no) fared better.