In a decisive display, New Zealand wrapped up Sri Lanka‘s second innings for 306 on Day 4 of the first Test in Galle. Sri Lanka, facing the challenge of chasing 275 runs to secure a lead in the two-match series, found themselves in dire straits, losing six wickets for a mere 72 runs. The morning session belonged to New Zealand’s bowlers, particularly Ajaz Patel, who shone brightly with a stellar performance.

Ajaz Patel’s six-wicket haul for New Zealand 

Ajaz was the standout performer, claiming six wickets for 90 runs. His ability to exploit the deteriorating pitch conditions played a crucial role in dismantling the Sri Lankan batting order. His incisive spells saw him take six wickets within just over an hour, demonstrating skillful variations and excellent control. With this performance, Patel secured his fifth five-wicket haul in just 17 Tests, solidifying his reputation as a potent threat in overseas conditions.

1. Dhananjaya de Silva (40) – Stumped

Ajaz set the tone early in the session by dismissing Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva. De Silva came down the track to counter Patel’s flight but was deceived by the sharp turn. The delivery pitched on a good length, turning enough to beat the bat, allowing wicketkeeper Tom Blundell to whip off the bails. This dismissal marked a crucial breakthrough, leaving Sri Lanka at 237 for 5 and signaling the beginning of their collapse.

2. Kusal Mendis (0) – Bowled

Ajaz’s next victim was Kusal Mendis, who fell victim to a delivery that showcased Ajaz’s ability to extract extra bounce. Mendis attempted to leave a ball outside off-stump, only for it to deflect off his elbow onto the stumps. This unfortunate dismissal emphasized the pressure mounting on Sri Lanka as they crumbled to 243 for 6.

3. Angelo Mathews (50) – Caught at Slip

After reaching his fifty, Angelo Mathews edged a delivery that turned sharply from Ajaz attempting a forward defense. The ball carried to Daryl Mitchell at slip, who made a good catch. Mathews’ dismissal was pivotal; he was Sri Lanka’s last remaining hope for a stable innings, and his exit left the team reeling at 265 for 7.

4. Ramesh Mendis (0) – LBW

Ajaz continued his onslaught by trapping Ramesh Mendis LBW with a well-disguised delivery. Ramesh attempted a sweep shot but missed the line, and the ball crashed into his pads. This wicket brought Patel’s tally to four and underscored his mastery over the Sri Lankan batters.

5. Lahiru Kumara (0) – Caught at Mid-Off

In quick succession, Ajaz dismissed Lahiru Kumara, who aimed to counterattack but ended up chipping a catch to mid-off. This wicket marked Patel’s fifth of the innings, demonstrating his relentless pressure on the lower order.

6. Dimuth Karunaratne (83) – Bowled

Earlier on Day 3, Ajaz first broke through for New Zealand, dismissing Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne for 83 runs. Karunaratne attempted to play a sweep shot but misjudged the delivery, which sneaked under his bat and crashed into the stumps. At the time of the wicket, Sri Lanka was 153 for 2, and Karunaratne’s dismissal was significant in shifting the momentum back to New Zealand.

Here’s the video:

Lankan batters caught in @AjazP’s spin trap 🕸️

A magical 6-wicket haul to remember for the Kiwi 🎯#SonySportsNetwork #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/f1RZIxQBfN

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 22, 2024

Also WATCH: Tim Southee takes a flying catch to dismiss Pathum Nissanka on Day 3 of the 1st Test

New Zealand’s bowling brilliance secures lead against Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka resumed their innings on Sunday at 237 for 4, with captain De Silva and Mathews both at the crease, looking to build a competitive total. However, New Zealand’s Patel quickly dismantled the Sri Lankan batting order with his accurate and varied bowling. As Sri Lanka crumbled, their total reached just 306 in the second innings.

The lower order couldn’t withstand Patel’s probing deliveries, and Lahiru Kumara’s attempts to accelerate the scoring went in vain. Jayasuriya’s dismissal, caught by William O’Rourke off Mitchell Santner, ended the innings. O’Rourke had an outstanding match, taking three wickets in the second innings, contributing to match figures of 8 for 104. His performance followed a stellar debut against South Africa earlier in the year, where he collected 9 for 93, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the New Zealand bowling attack.

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