Jayasurya’s Five-For Downs New Zealand in First Test at Galle

Prabath Jayasuriya delivered an exceptional bowling spell that led Sri Lanka to a decisive 63-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Galle.

On Monday, the Black Caps, needing 275 runs to win, were dismissed for 211. Rachin Ravindra was the standout performer for New Zealand, scoring a resilient 92, the highest by a Kiwi at Galle, surpassing Ross Taylor’s 89 in 2019.

However, his innings came to an end when Jayasuriya trapped him lbw, adding just one run to his overnight tally. Jayasuriya’s impressive figures of 5-68 in the second innings brought his match total to nine wickets, underscoring his pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s triumph.

Jayasurya sealed the victory by dismissing New Zealand’s young pacer William O’Rourke for a duck. O’Rourke, despite the loss, showcased his potential by taking eight wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings, marking an impressive performance in just his third Test.

The left-arm orthodox spinner now has 71 wickets in 12 Test matches for Sri Lanka and has recently made a name for himself in red-ball cricket.

Ajaz Patel also delivered a noteworthy performance for New Zealand, claiming 6-90 in Sri Lanka’s second innings, the best figures by a Kiwi bowler in Sri Lanka since Daniel Vettori’s 6-64 in 1998.

Sri Lanka will look to maintain their momentum in the second and final Test at the same venue, while New Zealand aims to bounce back and level the series.