Wanindu Hasaranga of Sri Lanka plays a shot during the first T20 against the Black Caps in Dambulla. Photo: photosport
The Black Caps' struggles in Sri Lanka continued as they returned to earth with a four-wicket loss in the opening Twenty20.
Fresh off their historic 3-0 test series sweep of India in India, a much-changed New Zealand side struggled from the outset in Dambulla as the home side coasted to victory with an over to spare.
It was a sharp reminder of how difficult Sri Lanka are to beat in their home conditions, with the Black Caps having been swept 2-0 in tests there before embarking on their remarkable form reversal in India.
Their chances of opening the two-match T20 series victory slumped when Sri Lanka's spinners claimed six wickets between them to skittle New Zealand for 135 in the 20th over.
Michael Bracewell scored 27 before Zachary Foulkes provided some late impetus with an unbeaten 27 off 16 balls after spinners Dunith Wellalage (3-20) and Nuwan Thusara (2-14) proved difficult to handle.
On a turning track, Sri Lanka were largely in control throughout the chase, reaching 140-6 with an over to spare.
Captain Charith Asalanka provided a steady hand with 35 not out off 28, arriving at the crease when the chase teetered slightly at 55 for three.
Foulkes completed a good return in just his third T20 international, taking 3-20 off three overs with his medium pacers in what were conditions far better suited to slow bowlers.
The second and final game is also at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Monday morning before the teams play three ODIs.
New Zealand are fielding a largely second string side, with many of their most proven players having returned home to prepare for the three-test series against England.
