Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya delivered a match-winning performance as Sri Lanka defeated New Zealand by 63 runs in the Galle Test. With this win, Sri Lanka now leads the 2-match Test series 1-0, marking a strong start for the team. This victory was especially significant as Jayasuriya, who was once dropped from the team due to fitness issues, turned out to be the hero with a total of 9 wickets in the match.
Sri Lanka Sets a Challenging Target for New Zealand
The Galle Test saw Sri Lanka posting a target of 275 runs for New Zealand to chase. Although the Kiwis had a good chance to win, given the time and conditions in their favor, they struggled to overcome Sri Lanka’s spin attack. Jayasuriya’s left-arm spin proved too difficult to handle for the New Zealand batsmen, creating a major obstacle for the visitors.
Day Four: New Zealand Still in the Game
By the end of the fourth day, New Zealand had scored 207 for 8 wickets, with Rachin Ravindra playing a crucial innings and remaining unbeaten on 91. New Zealand needed just 68 runs with two wickets in hand on the final day, while Sri Lanka needed to dismiss those two remaining batsmen to claim victory.
Day Five: Jayasuriya Shines Again to Seal the Win
On the fifth day of the match, New Zealand’s hopes of pulling off a victory quickly faded. Within just half an hour, Prabath Jayasuriya took the remaining two wickets of the New Zealand batting lineup. His brilliant performance, which included a 5-wicket haul in the second innings and 4 wickets in the first innings, was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s victory.
Jayasuriya’s Inspiring Journey: From Dropped Due to Fitness to Match-Winner
Prabath Jayasuriya’s journey in international cricket is remarkable. He made his international debut for Sri Lanka in 2018 but was soon dropped from the team due to fitness concerns. However, his story took a turn during Sri Lanka’s Test series against Australia in 2022. Called back to the squad because several players were unavailable due to COVID-19, Jayasuriya seized the opportunity and hasn’t looked back since.
His performance in this Test against New Zealand, where he claimed a total of 9 wickets, showcases his hard work and resilience. Jayasuriya’s success in this match solidifies his place as a key player in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.
Galle: Sri Lanka’s Fortress in Test Cricket
With this win, Sri Lanka has recorded its 25th Test victory at the Galle International Stadium, making it their most successful venue. Since 2000, the team has played 43 Tests in Galle, winning 25 of them. This is a record shared only with England, which has also won 25 Tests at Lord’s, but in 48 matches.
The win at Galle further strengthens Sri Lanka’s reputation as a dominant force in home conditions, particularly when playing on spin-friendly pitches like those found at the iconic Galle Stadium. This victory against New Zealand adds to the long history of Sri Lankan cricketing success at this venue, cementing Galle’s place as a fortress for the team.
