Jayasuriya shines as Sri Lanka defeat New Zealand

GALLE: The first test match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand wrapped up quickly Monday morning thanks to Jayasuriya, with Sri Lanka winning by 63 runs.

Sri Lanka took New Zealand’s ninth wicket in just the second over of the day, as Prabath Jayasuriya took down Rachin Ravindra, who was only eight runs away from a century. Rachin reviewed the LBW but to no avail.

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With one wicket left and another 65 runs needed to win, it seemed to be the end for New Zealand with William O’Rourke joining Ajaz Patel as the last batsman. Patel was able to make two more runs before being bowled out by Jayasuriya in the 72^nd over.

The Sri Lankan spinner was the player of the match, taking five wickets in New Zealand’s first innings and another four in their first. The Sri Lankan standout bowled just over 70 overs across the match.

On the batting side, Kamindu Mendis made an impressive 114 runs in Sri Lanka’s first innings and teammate Kusal Mendis made a half century. Both struggled in their second innings, but were supported by Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, and Angelo Matthews, who all made half centuries.

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New Zealand had a good showing in their first innings, with opener Tom Lathan leading the team, making 70 runs from 111 deliveries. Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell also did well, both making half centuries. Glenn Phillips was left stranded just one run away from a half century of his own.

It was in the second innings that New Zealand truly started to struggle, despite Ravindra’s 92. A lack of offense from his teammates led to the team being all out at 211, still 63 runs behind their target.

Sri Lanka are 1-0 up in the two-match series and are up to third place in the World Test Championship.