Wed Sep 18 08:51:26 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Strike Early, Sri Lanka Stumble in Galle Test

**Galle, Sri Lanka:** New Zealand made a strong start to the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, reducing the hosts to 108/4 at lunch. The Black Caps’ bowlers exploited the early movement on a fresh pitch to take wickets at regular intervals.

William O’Rourke struck early, dismissing both Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 33/2. Ajaz Patel continued the pressure, forcing both Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews to play cautiously.

Chandimal, who was batting well for his 30 runs, fell to a simple catch by Michael Bracewell just after lunch. Soon after, Glenn Phillips bowled Dhananjaya de Silva to further dent Sri Lanka’s hopes.

Angelo Mathews, who had walked off the field earlier due to a finger injury, returned to bat after receiving medical attention. The hosts will be hoping he can make a significant contribution.

New Zealand will be pleased with their performance in the first session, but Sri Lanka will be hoping to regroup and build a competitive total in the second session.

**Key Highlights:**

* New Zealand won the toss and elected to field.
* Sri Lanka lost their first two wickets early on.
* Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews batted well for Sri Lanka.
* New Zealand struck back after lunch, taking three wickets.
* Angelo Mathews returned to bat after suffering a finger injury.

**The Series:**

This two-match Test series is the first of New Zealand’s busy tour of Asia, which also includes three Tests in India. The Black Caps are aiming to end their winless streak in away Test series within the World Test Championship. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be looking to build on their recent victory in England.

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