Sat Sep 28 15:04:12 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka on Verge of Crushing New Zealand in Galle Test

**Galle:** Sri Lanka are poised for a resounding victory in the second Test against New Zealand, with the tourists facing an uphill battle after being bowled out for a paltry 88 in their first innings. On day three, New Zealand were forced to follow-on and ended the day at 199-5, still a significant deficit.

Spinner Prabath Jayasuriya was the architect of New Zealand’s downfall, claiming an impressive 6-42 in the first innings, his ninth five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Jayasuriya, however, missed out on a chance to equal the record for fastest bowler to 100 Test wickets, set in 1896 by England’s George Lohmann. He would have needed to take all five remaining New Zealand wickets to achieve this feat.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, declared their first innings on a massive 602-5, setting up a dominant position. Debutant off-spinner Nishan Peiris picked up three key wickets in New Zealand’s second innings, including the dismissal of former captain Kane Williamson.

Despite a stubborn 97-run partnership between Devon Conway and Williamson for the second wicket, Sri Lanka’s spinners proved too strong. Conway, battling to save his place in the side, fell for 61, while Williamson was dismissed for 38.

With Tom Blundell (47 not out) and Glenn Phillips (32 not out) at the crease, New Zealand will need a miraculous comeback to salvage the match. The third day ended prematurely due to bad light, leaving the tourists facing a daunting task on day four.

Sri Lanka will be confident of securing a series win, which would mark a significant victory for the home side.

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