On the resolution screen, New Zealand completed Sri LankaSecond innings for 306 on Day 4 of the first Test at Galle. Chasing 275 runs to secure a lead in the two-match series, Sri Lanka were left in dire straits, losing six wickets for just 72 runs. The morning session belonged especially to the New Zealand bowlers Ajaz Patelshining with brilliant performance.
Ajaz Patel’s 6-wicket haul against New Zealand
Ajaz was the standout performer claiming six wickets for 90 runs. His ability to take advantage of deteriorating pitch conditions was instrumental in dismantling the Sri Lankan batting order. His crisp spells saw him score six goals in just over an hour, displaying deft changes and excellent control. With this performance, Patel secured his fifth 5th wicket in just 17 Tests and cemented his reputation as a potent overseas threat.
1. Dhananjaya de Silva (40) – Whole
Ajaz set the tone early in the session by dismissing the Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva. De Silva went down the track to counter Patel’s flight, but the sharp turn deceived him. The delivery was a good length, with just enough spin to beat the bat and allow keeper Tom Blundell to take the bails. This dismissal was a crucial breakthrough, leaving Sri Lanka 237 for 5 and signaling the beginning of their collapse.
2. Kusal Mendis (0) – Bowled
He became the next victim of Ajaz Kusal MendisAjaz fell victim to a delivery that showcased his ability to produce extra bounce. Mendis tried to pitch the ball outside off stump, only to have the ball elbow onto the stumps. This poor dismissal highlighted the mounting pressure on Sri Lanka as they reached 243 for 6.
3. Angelo Mathews (50) – Caught at slip
After reaching the age of fifty, Angelo Mathews The forward broke a sharply deflected pass from Ajaz, who tried to defend. He carried the ball Daryl Mitchell slip, who made a good catch. Matthews’ dismissal was crucial; he was Sri Lanka’s last remaining hope for steady innings and his performance left the team reeling at 265 for 7.
4. Ramesh Mendis (0) – LBW
Ajaz continued his attack by trapping him Ramesh Mendis LBW with a well disguised delivery. Ramesh tried to hit a shot but missed the line and the ball hit his pads. This wicket took Patel’s tally to four and underlined his mastery over the Sri Lankans.
5. Lahiru Kumara (0) – Caught at mid-off
Ajaz was dismissed in succession Lahiru Kumaraaimed to counter-attack but ended up with a catch in the middle. The wicket marked Patel’s fifth of the innings and showcased his relentless pressure on the lower order.
6. Dimuth Karunaratne (83) – Bowled
At the start of the 3rd day, Ajaz dismissed the Sri Lankan captain and left for New Zealand Dimuth Karunaratne For 83 runs. Karunaratne tried to play a sweep shot but misjudged the delivery, which went under his bat and crashed into the stumps. Sri Lanka were 153 for 2 at the wicket and Karunaratne’s dismissal was instrumental in bringing the momentum back to New Zealand.
We present the video:
The Lankarans were captured @AjazPspin trap of 🕸️
Memorable magical 6 cap game for Kiwi 🎯#SonySportsNetwork #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/f1RZIxQBfN
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 22, 2024
Also WATCH: Tim Southee takes a flying catch to dismiss Pathum Nissanka on Day 3 of the 1st Test
New Zealand’s bowling brilliance secures lead against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka resumed their innings at 237 for 4 on Sunday, with captain De Silva and Mathews both at the crease, looking to build a competitive total. However, New Zealander Patel quickly dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting line-up with accurate and varied bowling. As Sri Lanka collapsed, their total was reduced to just 306 in the second innings.
The lower order failed to withstand Patel’s probing deliveries and Lahiru Kumara‘s attempts to speed up the account were in vain. Jayasuriya’s dismissal, caught by William O’Rourke off Mitchell Santnerfinished the shot. O’Rourke had a superb match, taking three wickets in the second innings to contribute to figures of 104 for 8. His performance made a perfect debut against him. South Africa earlier in the year, he showed his potential as a rising star in the New Zealand bowling attack, with 9 for 93.
