The exciting Galle Test has concluded. On the final day, it took only 16 minutes and 22 balls to decide the fate of the match. In a nail-biting contest, Sri Lanka had the last laugh, leaving New Zealand in disappointment. As a result, Sri Lanka now leads the two-match Test series 1-0.
In a tightly contested match, the balance of victory tilted slightly towards the Sri Lankans. On the fifth and final day, the hosts needed just two wickets to secure the win. On a difficult batting wicket, New Zealand required 68 runs to win, but they could only add 5 more runs, handing Sri Lanka a 63-run victory.
Batting first in Galle, Sri Lanka posted a total of 305 runs in their first innings. In response, New Zealand managed to score 340 runs, gaining a lead of 35 runs. In their second innings, Sri Lanka scored 309 runs, setting a target of 275 runs for the visiting New Zealand team.
In reply, New Zealand crumbled under the pressure of the Sri Lankan bowlers, losing 8 wickets by the fourth day and managing only 207 runs. The final day promised to be thrilling, with Rachin Ravindra, who was unbeaten on 91, standing as a significant obstacle to Sri Lanka’s victory.
Rachin Ravindra was arguably the key player standing between Sri Lanka and victory. However, on Monday, the New Zealand all-rounder couldn’t hold out any longer. Prabath Jayasuriya struck early, taking two quick wickets, including Ravindra’s, to seal the win for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka needed only 22 balls on the fifth day to secure their victory. Ravindra could only add 1 run to his overnight score, getting out for 92 runs off 168 balls. Following his dismissal, O’Rourke was out for a duck. Jayasuriya reached the milestone of five wickets in the innings by taking both wickets.
In the previous innings, Jayasuriya had already taken 4 wickets. With a total of 9 wickets across both innings, Jayasuriya was rightfully awarded the Man of the Match.
The series-deciding second Test between the two teams will also take place in Galle. The match is set to begin this Thursday.
