Prabath Jayasuriya’s fifer helps Sri Lanka beat New Zealand by 63 runs

Star spinner Prabath Jayasuriya picked a superb five-wicket haul to help Sri Lanka secure a 63-run victory over New Zealand in the opening Test match in Galle, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series on Monday. Jayasuriya's 5-wicket helped the hosts bowl out New Zealand for 211, successfully defending a target of 275

New Zealand faced a tough challenge needing 68 runs on the final morning, but their hopes were dashed early as Rachin Ravindra, the key player, was dismissed quickly. Having always been in control, Sri Lanka took just 29 balls to wrap up the game. New Zealand's turning point came on day three, when they squandered a strong position at 255 for 4, failing to capitalize and take a significant first-innings lead.

Chasing 275 in the final innings, New Zealand required substantial partnerships, but despite starts from Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Tom Blundell, none could carry on. Ravindra's valiant 92 stood out, but it wasn't enough. Jayasuriya was the show's star with figures of 5 for 68, while fellow spinner Ramesh Mendis also played a crucial role, picking up 3 for 83.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Sri Lanka faced early difficulties, finding themselves at 106/4. However, Kamindu Mendis' brilliant century steadied the innings and, with contributions from the lower order, Sri Lanka posted a challenging first-innings total of over 300.

New Zealand responded positively at the top of the order, but Sri Lanka's spin attack dismantled their middle and lower order, restricting them to a slender first-innings lead of 35 runs. In the second innings, Sri Lanka batted steadily to set a target of 275, which proved too steep for the visitors.

Despite New Zealand's determined chase, Jayasuriya's exceptional spell sealed the win for Sri Lanka, securing an unassailable lead in the series.

The second Test, also in Galle, begins on Thursday.