Sri Lanka are all set to welcome New Zealand for an exciting two-match Test series, with the first Test scheduled to begin on September 18 at the iconic Galle International Stadium. Both teams will be eager to begin the series on a strong note, with Sri Lanka having the upper hand due to their formidable record in home conditions. The Galle pitch is known to favor spinners, making it crucial for the visitors to adapt quickly to the challenging subcontinental surface.

New Zealand, led by Tim Southee, will be well aware of the tough task ahead. Despite being ranked highly in Test cricket, the Black Caps will need to overcome Sri Lanka’s experienced lineup and spin-friendly conditions. Sri Lanka, under the leadership of Dhanajaya de Silva, will look to capitalize on their home advantage, with spinners such as Prabath Jayasuriya and Ramesh Mendis expected to play a pivotal role.

Both sides are equipped with strong squads, blending a mix of experienced players and exciting newcomers. While Sri Lanka will rely on stalwarts like Angelo Mathews and De Silva, New Zealand will count on Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and their solid pace attack to counter Sri Lanka’s spin threat. Fans can expect a highly competitive series as both teams aim for a crucial Test series win.

SL vs NZ: Head to Head Record in Tests:

Matches played: 38 | Sri Lanka won: 9 | New Zealand won: 18 | Draw: 11

Test Stats and Records at Galle International Stadium:

Matches played: 44
Matches won batting first: 23
Matches won bowling first: 15
Average 1st innings scores: 365
Average 2nd innings scores: 314
Average 3rd innings scores: 234
Average 4th innings scores: 157
Highest total recorded: 704/3 (151 Ov) by Sri Lanka vs Ireland
Lowest total recorded: 73/10 (28.5 Ov) by South Africa vs Sri Lanka

SL vs NZ: Galle International Stadium Pitch Report:

The Galle International Stadium, set against the backdrop of the historic Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean, is a spinner’s paradise, particularly known for its challenging surface as the match progresses. On the first two days, pacers can find some assistance with early seam movement and swing due to the moisture and humidity, but this fades quickly as the pitch begins to deteriorate. From Day 3 onward, spinners dominate, with the dry surface offering sharp turn, bounce, and unpredictable variable bounce, making it difficult for batters to negotiate.

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand 2024, Test series: Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

SL vs NZ: Galle Weather Forecast:

The weather forecast for Galle over the next five days suggests a wet Test match ahead. On Day 1, September 18, morning showers are expected with a high of 30°C and winds from the west at 15 to 30 km/h, with a 60% chance of rain. Day 2 brings afternoon showers with the same temperature and wind conditions, but a slightly lower 40% chance of rain. Day 3 will see more showers, a high of 30°C, and a 60% chance of rain. On Day 4, heavier rain is forecast, with a high of 29°C, 70% rain probability, and around 6 mm of rainfall expected. Day 5 closes with more showers, a high of 30°C, and an increased chance of rain at 80%, making weather a significant factor throughout the match.

SL vs NZ 2024: Playing XI of both teams

Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara

New Zealand (Probable): Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tom Blundell (wk), Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee (c), Matt Henry, Ajaz Patel, Ben Sears

Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024 – New Zealand’s best XI for the Test series against Sri Lanka

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