Sri Lanka host New Zealand in the first of two critical World Test Championship at Galle this week. James RIcharson previews.
Sri Lanka v New Zealand – First Test
18-22 September 2024
Galle International Cricket Stadium
New Zealand arrive in Sri Lanka in third place on the WTC standings and could put serious pressure on the top two if they can get some results in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka may have lost their series in England but they were able to win the final Test and will hope to build on that result in Galle. New Zealand have played four Tests in Galle and have lost all four.
Batter Oshada Fernando has earned a recall the squad off the back of impressive performances for the A team with Nishan Madushka being left out, along with fast-bowling all-rounder Nisala Tharaka and seamer Kasun Rajitha.
Pathum Nissanka, struck a match-winning century in the final Test against England and will be the batter to watch in this home series.
Lead spinner Prabath Jayasuriya could be the main dangerman with the ball in hand but Sri Lanka will likely load their XI with spin options.
Ramesh Mendis is likely to come in to bolster Sri Lanka’s lower order and their spin options.
Kane Williamson’s experience and great technique on the subcontinent will make him the key batter for the Kiwis.
A New Zealander has never scored a Test hundred in Galle and they traditionally struggle to occupy the crease at this ground.
The Black Caps missed out on a warm-up Test match for this WTC series after the complete washout of the match between themselves and Afghanistan at Greater Noida.
Tim Southee has quite the task on his hands leading his team into a fortress given that they could really use at least one win on this trip.
Verdict: Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka are heavy favourites for a reason. They should get the job done against the Kiwis who have traditionally struggled in Galle.
