Sun Sep 22 17:51:32 UTC 2024: ## Ajaz Patel Leads New Zealand to Victory in Galle Test
**Galle, Sri Lanka:** New Zealand secured a comfortable 7-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test match at Galle on Day 4, thanks to a stellar performance by left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel.
Patel, who took a remarkable 6 wickets for 90 runs in the third innings, picked up his second five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka. This makes him one of only two New Zealand bowlers with more than one Test-match five-for in the island nation.
New Zealand chased down the 68 runs needed for victory with ease, leaving 102 balls unused. Patel’s impressive bowling performance was crucial to setting up the victory.
“This is a great opportunity to play six Tests in Asia,” said Patel, highlighting the significance of the tour for his development as a bowler.
The victory comes after a challenging few days for the Kiwis, who faced a strong fightback from Sri Lanka. However, Patel’s bowling prowess and the team’s resilience ultimately proved too much for the hosts.
First Piper 