Sri Lanka Dominates New Zealand in 2nd Test, Completes Series Sweep with Peiris' Five-For
Sri Lanka secured a comprehensive victory over New Zealand in the 2nd Test match, sealing a series sweep with a dominant performance. The match, held from September 26 to 29, 2024, saw Sri Lanka crush New Zealand by an innings and 154 runs. This win marked Sri Lanka's third consecutive Test victory, putting them in the race for a World Test Championship final spot.
Nishan Peiris, on his Test debut, delivered a standout performance, taking six wickets in the second innings and nine overall. Despite some resistance from New Zealand’s lower middle order, spearheaded by Glenn Phillips, Tom Blundell, and Mitchell Santner, Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, led by Peiris and Prabath Jayasuriya, proved too strong.
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New Zealand’s first innings collapse, where they were bowled out for just 88, set the tone for their struggles. Prabath Jayasuriya ran riot with 6 for 42, while Peiris chipped in with 3 for 33. This dismal batting display left New Zealand on the back foot, facing a mammoth Sri Lankan total of 602 for 5 declared. Kamindu Mendis starred with an unbeaten 182, while Dinesh Chandimal (116) and Kusal Mendis (106*) piled on the runs.
In New Zealand’s second innings, they fared better, managing 360 runs, but it was never enough to avoid the innings defeat. Phillips (78), Santner (67), Conway (61), and Blundell (60) fought hard, but Peiris’ off-spin proved pivotal, particularly in dismissing the three half-centurions. Peiris’ aggressive and disciplined bowling earned him figures of 6 for 170 in the second innings, completing an impressive debut.
Jayasuriya, too, played a key role, taking 3 wickets and finishing the match with 9 wickets to his name. His lethal delivery that bowled Ajaz Patel out from the rough demonstrated his ability to exploit the conditions expertly.
The victory not only highlighted Sri Lanka’s prowess with both bat and ball but also showcased their exceptional fielding, a department in which New Zealand lagged. Kane Williamson’s rare double dismissal in a single day epitomized the struggles of the Black Caps. He was first caught by Dhananjaya de Silva in the first innings and later mistimed a shot off Peiris, leading to a stunning catch by substitute fielder Ramesh Mendis.
With this win, Sri Lanka remains in contention for a World Test Championship final spot, although they will need favorable results in other matches to bolster their chances. The series sweep is a testament to their growing dominance in Test cricket, particularly on home soil, as they continue their climb up the rankings.
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