Sri Lanka claimed a 63-run victory against New Zealand in the first Test in Galle, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series on Monday (September 23). Despite a valiant knock of 92 from Rachin Ravindra in the fourth innings, New Zealand's batting lineup collapsed, with little support for Ravindra from his teammates. Tom Blundell and Kane Williamson each scored 30 runs, but seven New Zealand batters failed to reach double digits.
Chasing 275 for victory, Ravindra stood as New Zealand's lone resistance but was eventually dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who played a pivotal role in the win. Jayasuriya’s match-winning spell of 5/68 in the final innings dismantled the Blackcaps, taking key wickets including Ravindra, Williamson, Blundell, Glenn Phillips, and Will O'Rourke, as New Zealand was bowled out for 211.
Earlier in the match, Sri Lanka elected to bat first, posting 305 in their first innings, anchored by a century from Kamindu Mendis. New Zealand responded with 340, boosted by a five-wicket haul from Will O'Rourke, giving them a narrow lead. However, Sri Lanka’s second-innings total of 309 set a formidable target for New Zealand, and Jayasuriya’s dominant performance with the ball sealed the victory for the hosts.
Jayasuriya, who took four wickets in New Zealand's first innings, was named Player of the Match for his 9-wicket haul across both innings. The second Test will begin at the same venue on September 26.
Brief Scores: - Sri Lanka: 305 & 309. - New Zealand: 340 & 211. Result: Sri Lanka won by 63 runs.