After declaring their innings at a commanding 602 runs, Sri Lanka’s bowlers took full control of the match, dismantling New Zealand for a meagre 88 runs in their first innings. On a pitch that offered plenty of runs for those willing to grind it out—evident from three centuries scored by Sri Lankan batsmen—the Kiwis struggled to find their footing, particularly against the spin of Prabhat Jayasuriya, who left them in disarray in Galle.
It all began with the early dismissal of veteran Tom Latham, who was sent back for a duck by a superb delivery from Asitha Fernando in the very first over. His opening partner, Devon Conway, managed only nine runs before falling victim to the relentless pressure. The usually reliable Kane Williamson, widely regarded as one of the finest Test batters of his generation, also couldn’t anchor the innings, departing for a mere seven runs.
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The decision to send Ajaz Patel up the order at number four proved futile as well; he contributed only eight runs before being dismissed. The middle order offered no respite either. Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, two of New Zealand’s promising talents, failed to make any significant impact, scoring just 10 and 13 runs respectively.
Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell added to the visitors’ woes with a solitary run before his dismissal. Glenn Phillips, batting at number eight, couldn’t even get off the mark as Jayasuriya continued his rampage, finishing with six wickets in the innings. Nishan Perera chipped in with three wickets, capitalizing on the visiting side’s inability to handle spin.
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Mitchell Santner emerged as New Zealand’s top scorer with a modest 29 runs, but even he struggled to navigate the tricky surface and fell to Perera. With a massive lead of 514 runs, Sri Lanka enforced the follow-on, and the New Zealand batters will need to show far more resolve against spin if they hope to avoid a swift defeat on Day 3.
The lack of fight against spin bowling is a serious concern for the Kiwis, and their experienced players like Latham, Williamson, and Mitchell must step up in the second innings to salvage some pride and prevent an embarrassing loss.
Prabath Jayasuriya’s achievement of his 9th five-wicket haul, especially the 8th at Galle in just 15 innings, is truly remarkable! It highlights not only his talent but also his dedication and hard work. His journey inspires aspiring cricketers to strive for excellence and…
— Rohit Agrawal (@rohitsmb) September 28, 2024
SRI LANKA – 602/5. 😲
NEW ZEALAND – 88/10. 🤯
Prabath Jayasuriya picked 6/42 – Sri Lanka with the lead of 514 runs. pic.twitter.com/RnjmODz4Bu
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 28, 2024
9th Five-Wicket Haul in Test cricket by Prabath Jayasuriya.
His 8th at Galle in just 15 innings. 🤯🔥🔥#PrabathJayasuriya #SLvNZ #SLvsNZ pic.twitter.com/qzpc8I9bTF
— Saabir Zafar (@Saabir_Saabu01) September 28, 2024
Sri Lanka’s spinners delivered a masterclass in Galle. dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup and securing a commanding victory.@ICC @SriLankaTweet
— Muhammad Azhar (@2311Azhar) September 28, 2024
Prabath Jayasuriya’s Test bowling record at Galle:
– 6/118
– 6/59
– 5/82
– 4/135
– 3/80
– 5/117
– 7/52
– 3/56
– 5/174
– 2/88
– 3/145
– 4/56
– 4/136
– 5/68
– 6/42*– Jayasuriya has phenomenal at Galle showcasing remarkable skill and consistency throughout performances! 🥶 #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/btOx6J75hj
— Shamim Sports. (@ShamimSports) September 28, 2024
Sri Lanka is well & Truly back to their old form 😊
The old srilanka is back. They defeated India in odi’s they defeated England in 2nd test now they’re dominating Black caps— Akshay Kumar R🎗️🇮🇱🇮🇳🚩 (@McLaren_Pubg77) September 28, 2024
Prabath Jayasuriya loves to pick fifers. Beautiful bowling once again.👏💯💯. He is the backbone of Sri Lanka bowling line up like Rangana Herath used to be in test cricket.🙌🙌
— Syeda Maimona (@ta24563) September 28, 2024
