Sri Lanka Triumphs Over New Zealand with Prabath’s Brilliance

Rachin Ravindra posed a significant challenge for Sri Lanka on the previous afternoon, but Prabath Jayasuriya ensured he wouldn’t lead New Zealand to a thrilling victory. With his five-wicket haul, Sri Lanka achieved the anticipated win and took the lead in the series.

On Monday morning, only 3.4 overs were bowled on the final day of the Galle Test, with Sri Lanka securing a 63-run victory after bowling New Zealand out for 211. They now lead the two-match series 1-0.

Prabath was the hero for the Lankans, taking 5 wickets for 68 runs. He also claimed 4 wickets for 136 runs in the first innings, earning the Player of the Match award with a total of 9 wickets.

On the final day, New Zealand required 68 runs with two wickets remaining, hoping for Rachin, who was unbeaten on 91. However, on a spin-friendly pitch, he was dismissed LBW off Prabath's bowling after adding just 1 run. Prabath then wrapped up the innings by sending William O’Rourke back to the pavilion.

This Test featured a one-day break due to Sri Lanka’s national elections. Both teams battled hard in the first innings, with New Zealand taking a 35-run lead by scoring 340 in response to Sri Lanka’s 305. In the second innings, Sri Lanka posted 309 runs, setting a challenging target for the visitors on a difficult wicket. With the contributions of both Prabath and Ramesh Mendis in off-spin, New Zealand struggled to meet the challenge.