In reply to Canterbury's 137 all out in 32.5 overs, Auckland lost the first two wickets without a run on the board. But the Sri Lankan master blaster came in too Auckland's rescue and signalled his team's seven-wicket win (141 for 3 in 21.3 overs) with a huge six over long on. He had five sixes during his record breaking innings.
It was De Silva's third appearance for Auckland in New Zealand's one-day Shell Cup competition. He hit a quick fire 44 inn the first game and the second match was washed off by rain. Auckland team sources said De Silva will play for the state team only for five more weekends and is due to return to Colombo by the middle of next month to join the Sri Lanka national team which is currently under training.