- Jayasuriya took nine wickets, earning the Player of the Match award.
- Ramesh Mendis claimed three wickets in the second innings.
- Jayasuriya praised the Galle pitch and emphasized consistency in his bowling.
- The second Test will start on Thursday in Galle.
Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya wrapped up New Zealand’s innings in just two overs, finishing with a five-wicket haul as Sri Lanka secured a 63-run victory in the opening Test at Galle International Stadium.
Set a target of 275, New Zealand was bowled out for 211 on Monday. Despite a valiant effort from Rachin Ravindra, who scored 92, the New Zealand batters struggled to handle the sharp turn and low bounce of the pitch.
Jayasuriya, with figures of 5 for 68, achieved his eighth five-wicket haul, with seven of those coming at his favored venue in Galle.
“Our recent win in England really boosted our morale,” said Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva, referencing their Test victory at The Oval earlier this month.
“We have the capability to win Tests, and the team is stepping up to deliver.”
New Zealand started the final day needing 68 runs for an impressive win with two wickets remaining, but Sri Lanka completed the victory in just four overs.
New Zealand’s hopes faded quickly on the final day when Jayasuriya dismissed Rachin Ravindra in the second over, ending his impressive innings of 92, which featured nine fours and a six. Desperate, Ravindra reviewed the lbw decision, but replays confirmed he was out.
In his next over, Jayasuriya bowled out William O’Rourke with an arm ball that beat the batter’s defensive push, sealing Sri Lanka’s victory.
“Tough place to play, but it was a good Test match overall,” said New Zealand captain Tim Southee. “There are plenty of positives for us to take away, but it’s obviously disappointing to come out on the losing side.”
Jayasuriya’s impressive match haul of nine wickets earned him the Player of the Match award, while Ramesh Mendis contributed with three wickets in the second innings.
“I really like this Galle pitch,” Jayasuriya said. “I focus on maintaining a consistent line and length, and that approach brings results.”
The second Test, also taking place in Galle, is set to begin on Thursday.
