WATCH: Maheesh Theekshana gets hat-trick in ODI against New Zealand

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Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana delivered a sensational hat-trick during the second ODI against New Zealand at Seddon Park on Wednesday.

The milestone came in a rain-shortened 37-over match, where Theekshana dismissed three batters across two overs.

He removed New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner and Nathan Smith on consecutive deliveries in the 35th over and then sent Matt Henry packing on the first ball of the 37th over.

Finishing with figures of 4 for 44 in his eight overs, Theekshana’s remarkable spell marked a strong comeback after a challenging T20I series in which he managed just two wickets.

His performance also came after being dropped from the playing XI in the first ODI.

With this feat, Theekshana became the seventh Sri Lankan bowler to take an ODI hat-trick, joining an elite list featuring legends like Chaminda Vaas and Lasith Malinga. Vaas achieved this twice, while Malinga holds the record for three ODI hat-tricks.

New Zealand, however, posted a competitive total of 255/9 in their 37 overs. Rachin Ravindra led the charge with an impressive 79 off 63 balls, supported by Mark Chapman’s 62 off 52 deliveries.

The match continues to unfold as Sri Lanka chases a target that promises an exciting finish.