Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya needed just two overs to dismantle the New Zealand tail, securing a five-wicket haul as Sri Lanka clinched a 63-run triumph in the first Test at Galle International Stadium on Monday.
Chasing a target of 275, New Zealand were bowled out for 211, despite Rachin Ravindra's valiant 92. The Kiwi batsmen struggled to cope with the sharp turn and low bounce at the venue. Jayasuriya (5-68) notched his eighth five-wicket haul, with seven of those coming at his favored ground in Galle.
"The win in England boosted our morale," said home captain Dhananjaya de Silva, referring to their Test victory at The Oval earlier this month. "We have the capability to win Tests, and the boys are performing now."
New Zealand started the final day requiring 68 runs for a historic win with two wickets remaining, but Sri Lanka wrapped up victory in just four overs. New Zealand's hopes were dashed in the second over when Jayasuriya ended Ravindra's impressive innings, which included nine fours and a six. Ravindra reviewed the lbw decision but replays confirmed he was out.
Jayasuriya then bowled William O'Rourke in his next over to secure Sri Lanka's victory, outfoxing the batter with an arm ball.
"Tough place to come but a good Test match overall," said New Zealand captain Tim Southee. "There are plenty of positives for us to take away, but it's obviously disappointing to end up on the losing side."
Jayasuriya's match haul of nine wickets earned him the player of the match award, while Ramesh Mendis claimed three second-innings wickets.
"I love this Galle pitch," Jayasuriya said. "I just focus on bowling a consistent line and length, and the results follow."
The second Test, also in Galle, commences on Thursday.
