Galle, September 23: Sri Lanka secured a 63-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test match at Galle International Stadium on Monday, thanks to a stellar performance by left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who claimed five wickets in New Zealand’s second innings.
Chasing a target of 275, New Zealand was bowled out for 211 despite a valiant 92-run knock from Rachin Ravindra. However, the rest of the Kiwi batting lineup struggled to handle the sharp turn and low bounce of the pitch. Jayasuriya's 5-68 marked his eighth five-wicket haul in Tests, with seven of those coming at his favorite venue in Galle.
Heading into the final day, New Zealand needed 68 more runs with two wickets in hand, but Sri Lanka wrapped up the win in just four overs.
New Zealand's hopes were dashed in the second over of the day when Jayasuriya dismissed Ravindra, whose innings included nine boundaries and a six. Jayasuriya then bowled William O’Rourke in his next over, sealing Sri Lanka's victory.
Reflecting on the match, New Zealand captain Tim Southee said, "We played well throughout the Test match. There are plenty of positives to take, but it’s disappointing to be on the wrong side of the result."
Jayasuriya, who took nine wickets across both innings, was named Player of the Match. Ramesh Mendis also contributed significantly with three wickets in the second innings.
"I love bowling at Galle," Jayasuriya said after the match. "I just focus on maintaining a consistent line and length, and the results follow."
Sri Lanka, having won the toss, opted to bat first and posted a total of 305 in their first innings, powered by Kamindu Mendis’ brilliant century (114) and Kusal Mendis’ half-century (50).
In New Zealand's bowling attack, William O’Rourke claimed five wickets, while Ajaz Patel and Glenn Phillips took two wickets each, and Tim Southee chipped in with one.
In reply, New Zealand managed 340 runs in their first innings, thanks to half-centuries from Tom Latham (70), Kane Williamson (55), and Daryl Mitchell (57), giving them a 35-run lead.
Sri Lanka responded with a second-innings total of 309, supported by Dimuth Karunaratne (83), Dinesh Chandimal (61), and Angelo Mathews (50), setting a target of 275 for New Zealand.
New Zealand, however, fell short, being bowled out for 211, handing Sri Lanka a 63-run victory. The second Test will begin in Galle on Thursday.
