Mon Sep 23 08:11:54 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Clinch Thrilling First Test Victory Over New Zealand in Galle

**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Sri Lanka secured a thrilling 63-run victory over New Zealand on the final day of the first Test match in Galle on Monday. The hosts, led by a dominant performance from Prabath Jayasuriya, claimed a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Set a target of 275 runs to win, the Black Caps were bowled out for 211 in less than 15 minutes after the resumption of play, despite a valiant effort from Rachin Ravindra, who scored a gritty 92 runs. Ravindra, who had fought a lone battle on a sharply turning pitch, became Jayasuriya’s fifth victim, leaving the New Zealand tail chasing a daunting target.

Jayasuriya, who finished the match with nine wickets, including 5-68 in the second innings, also bowled rookie quick William O’Rourke for a duck to seal the victory. O’Rourke, who impressed with eight wickets in the match, was dismissed for a duck, failing to replicate his first innings heroics.

Ajaz Patel, who picked up 6-90 in Sri Lanka’s second innings, performed well for the visitors, claiming the best figures by a New Zealand bowler in Sri Lanka since Daniel Vettori’s 6-64 in Colombo in 1998.

Sri Lanka’s captain, Dhananjaya de Silva, expressed his delight with the win, highlighting the importance of the strong partnership between Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews in setting up a challenging target for New Zealand.

Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Tim Southee acknowledged the tough conditions in Galle while commending the fight shown by his team. He particularly praised William O’Rourke, predicting a bright future for the young quick.

Prabath Jayasuriya was named Player of the Match for his match-winning performance. He emphasized the importance of sticking to basics and hitting the right line and length.

The second and final Test match of the series will take place at the same venue, starting on Thursday, September 26th.

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