Srilanka ends New Zealand's unbeaten run

In a brilliant performance, Sri Lanka ended the Kiwis' unbeaten run in the tournament and booked a berth in the semi-finals. Sri Lanka beat New Zealand by six wickets in the Super Eights match at the World Cup on Thursday.

Chaminda Vaas (3-33) and Muthiah Muralitharan (3-32) restricted New Zealand to 219 for 7 with some fine bowling. While Sanath Jayasuriya (64) and Kumar Sangakkara (69 not out) scored half-centuries to guide the Sri Lankans home with 29 balls to spare.

New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat but struggled early in their innings. Scott Styris's undefeated 111 was the only saving grace for them.

Thursday's defeat left New Zealand still needing one more win from their final two Super Eights games, against South Africa and Australia to make sure of a semi-final spot. The loss also saw them fall one short of equaling their 2004 record of 10 straight one-day international wins. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will gear up to face Australia on Monday.