CRICKET

THISARA Perera blazed his way to a maiden international century but could not prevent New Zealand from sealing a one- day series victory.

The Black Caps seemed to be cruising having reduced Sri Lanka to 128 for seven as they pursued 320 to level the series at Mount Maunganui, but Perera’s onslaught gave them a fright.

The bowling all-rounder was dropped en route to a remarkable 57-ball ton and then again shortly after reaching the milestone, but he was eventually last man out for 140 from 74 deliveries after shovelling Matt Henry to long- on.

Despite his thunderous efforts, the tourists were all out for 298 as they succumbed to a 21-run defeat to the Kiwis, who claimed an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three- match series.

Ross Taylor (90) and Colin Munro (87) laid the platform for Jimmy Neesham to propel New Zealand to 319 for seven with a blistering 64 from 37 balls.