In a thrilling finish at Galle, Sri Lanka secured a 63-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test, thanks to Prabath Jayasuriya’s impressive nine-wicket haul. The match concluded swiftly on the final morning, with Sri Lanka claiming the last two New Zealand wickets within just 15 minutes.
New Zealand, set a target of 310, fell short, finishing their second innings at 211. Rachin Ravindra fought valiantly for his 92 off 168 balls, but his dismissal early in the morning proved crucial. Jayasuriya trapped him in front with an arm ball, and despite a review, the decision stood as it was confirmed to be pitching in line.
Jayasuriya continued his assault, claiming his fifth wicket when he bowled Will O’Rourke for just a single run. This performance not only clinched the match but also marked Jayasuriya’s eighth five-wicket haul, ending the match with impressive figures of 9 for 204 and earning him the Player-of-the-Match award.
Sri Lanka had earlier posted scores of 305 and 309, with Kamindu Mendis contributing a vital 114 in the first innings. Dimuth Karunaratne added 83 in the second, while New Zealand struggled to build substantial partnerships, despite Tom Latham’s 70 in their first innings.
With this win, Sri Lanka goes 1-0 up in the two-match series, climbing to third place in the World Test Championship points table. Conversely, New Zealand faces challenges ahead, with upcoming series against India and England that will test their resolve.
Both teams now have a brief respite before they clash again in the second Test, also scheduled in Galle, starting Thursday. As they regroup, the anticipation for another closely contested match looms large.
