New Zealand‘s cricket team faced a significant setback during their second Test against Sri Lanka, held in Galle. The match showcased a stark contrast in performance between the two sides, with New Zealand suffering a humiliating batting collapse that has raised serious concerns about their readiness for upcoming challenges.

A disastrous start for New Zealand

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bat first and put on an impressive display, scoring a monumental 602 runs for the loss of just five wickets before declaring. This innings was highlighted by remarkable performances from three centurions, Kamindu Mendis (182 not out), Kusal Mendis (106 not out), and Dinesh Chandimal (116 runs off 208 balls). Their dominance with the bat left New Zealand’s bowling attack reeling, as they struggled to contain the flow of runs throughout the innings.

When it was New Zealand’s turn to bat, they encountered severe difficulties. The team was bowled out for a mere 88 runs in their first innings, with only Mitchell Santner managing to score more than 20 runs—he top-scored with a paltry 29 runs. The rest of the batting lineup crumbled under the pressure exerted by Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly Prabath Jayasuriya, who delivered a stunning performance with figures of 6 wickets for just 42 runs. Nishan Peiris also contributed significantly with 3 wickets for 33 runs, leading to Sri Lanka enforcing the follow-on.

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Sri Lanka’s bowling dominance

The follow-on enforced by Sri Lanka was a clear indication of New Zealand’s struggles. With a daunting target and trailing by 514 runs, New Zealand returned to bat but faced another dismal collapse. In their second innings, they lost nine wickets for just 69 runs, showcasing a complete inability to build partnerships or withstand Sri Lankan bowling. Jayasuriya continued his exceptional form, while Peiris and Asitha Fernando chipped in with crucial wickets.

This match highlighted New Zealand’s ongoing issues with batting consistency. Following their defeat in the first Test by 63 runs on September 23, where they had chased down a target of 275 but fell short at 211 despite a valiant effort from Rachin Ravindra (92 runs), this second Test has raised alarm bells regarding their preparedness for the upcoming series against India.

Kamindu Mendis: A rising star from Sri Lanka

While New Zealand struggled, Mendis emerged as a standout performer for Sri Lanka. His remarkable innings of 182 not out in the second Test not only helped his team post an imposing total but also marked his fifth Test century in just eight matches. Mendis’ ability to score rapidly and anchor the innings has made him a crucial player for Sri Lanka and has drawn comparisons to some of the greats of the game.

His success at Galle is particularly noteworthy, having scored two centuries and a fifty in just three Tests at this venue, Mendis has established himself as a formidable force in international cricket. His consistent performances have played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s recent resurgence in Test cricket.

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