New Zealand and Sri Lanka played out a five-day thriller last time out and would do well to raise the bar. Sri Lanka came so close to earning a famous win, but they will take a lot from their performance.
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka | Second Test | Friday 17 March – Tuesday 21 March 2023 | The Basin Reserve, Wellington | 00:00
To Win
NZ 13/20 | Draw 19/10 | Sri Lanka 15/2
Tim Southee underlined that he still has plenty to offer with the ball and was well backed up by Matt Henry.
Henry put in a surprise star turn with the bat last time out and might have saved New Zealand’s bacon.
Daryl Mitchell was central to the Black Caps’ win with his first innings ton and his 81 in the chase.
Kane Williamson came good in that chase and hauled New Zealand over the line for the massive win.
Who said Mondays are boring 🤯#SparkSport #NZvSL pic.twitter.com/KalfmYb8Ea
— Spark Sport (@sparknzsport) March 13, 2023
Angelo Mathews stepped up yet again for Sri Lanka, adding another ton to his tally in his 101st Test.
Asitha Fernando consistently troubled the New Zealand batters having found a good line and length.
Kusal Mendis also played a big innings in tricky circumstances to keep Sri Lanka in the game.
Sri Lanka’s seamers nearly pulled off a huge shock after a big third innings powered by the Mathews ton.
Verdict: New Zealand
New Zealand should be able to clinch the series.
