A Test Series Win Over New Zealand After 15 Years; Sri Lanka Record Astonishing Feat
Sri Lanka won the test series vs NZ (Source: @OfficialSLC/x.com)
The Sri Lankan cricket team produced a scintillating performance at home against New Zealand in the Test series, winning by 2-0. The island nation secured an emphatic win in the second Test in Galle, defeating the visitors by an innings and 154 runs on Sunday.
This triumph marks Sri Lanka's first Test series win over New Zealand in 15 years, dating back to 2009 when they last overcame the Blackcaps in a two-match Test series at home.
Dhananjaya de Silva’s men outclassed New Zealand in every aspect of the game. Over the last 15 years, Sri Lanka has endured a tough run against the Kiwis, losing three away series and drawing two home series. This victory is a long-awaited redemption.
Spinners Dominate As Sri Lanka Bundles Out New Zealand
Sri Lanka's spinners proved to be the decisive factor in the series, spinning a web around the New Zealand batters, who could not handle the subcontinental conditions. Nishan Peiris was the standout bowler in the second Test, as he took six wickets in the second innings and crippled New Zealand’s hopes of a fightback.
Earlier in the first innings, Prabath Jayasuriya delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, picking up six wickets and helping Sri Lanka establish a commanding lead.
Kamindu Mendis, Chandimal Shine With the Bat
Sri Lanka's batting was equally formidable, posting a mammoth total of 602/5 in their first innings. Kamindu Mendis was the show's star, playing a marathon knock of 182 runs. His innings anchored Sri Lanka's total and saw him achieve a remarkable personal milestone. Mendis equalled the legendary Sir Don Bradman by becoming the second-fastest batter to complete 1,000 Test runs, achieving the feat in just 13 innings.
Alongside Mendis, veteran batter Dinesh Chandimal contributed with a superb knock of 116 runs, adding to New Zealand's woes.
This series win is significant for Sri Lanka, as it not only ends their 15-year drought against New Zealand but also solidifies their position as a formidable Test side, particularly at home.
This emphatic win over New Zealand in the second Test also helped the hosts witness a promotion in the WTC points table, claiming third place with an impressive PCT of 55.50.