Sri Lanka secures historic test victory over New Zealand, sealing 2-0 series sweep

GALLE: Sri Lanka claimed their largest-ever Test victory over New Zealand on Sunday, triumphing by an innings and 154 runs in the second Test held in Galle, completing a commanding 2-0 series sweep. The hosts posted a massive first-innings total of 602-5 declared, led by Kamindu Mendis’ unbeaten 182.

New Zealand, in response, could only muster 88 runs in their first innings, forcing them to follow on. Despite valiant half-centuries from Glenn Phillips (78), Devon Conway (61), Tom Blundell (60), and Mitchell Santner (67), the Black Caps were eventually bowled out for 360 in their second innings.

Sri Lanka’s spin duo Nishan Peiris (6-170) and Prabath Jayasuriya (3-139) played crucial roles in dismantling New Zealand’s batting line-up. Mendis, for his superb knock, was named player of the match, while Jayasuriya’s series haul of 18 wickets earned him the player of the series award. This dominant performance marked a significant achievement for Sri Lankan cricket.