Prabath Jayasuriya’s exceptional bowling performance in the second Test against New Zealand was bolstered by the impressive debut of Nishan Peiris, who proved to be a formidable foil.
In the first innings, Jayasuriya claimed five wickets, but his figures of 4 for 136 were hard-earned. However, in the second innings, he secured a customary Galle five-for, thanks to the improved control of his spin colleagues.
Recognizing the need for more consistent support, Sri Lanka replaced Ramesh Mendis with Peiris. The debutant justified his selection on day three, claiming six wickets to match Jayasuriya’s tally.
“When you bowl with him, it’s very easy,” Jayasuriya said of Peiris. “He bowled with a lot of confidence and showed his potential.”
The duo’s combined efforts resulted in 13 New Zealand wickets falling on day three. Jayasuriya’s nagging lines and lengths complemented Peiris’s ability to drift, dip, and turn the ball away from left-handers.
Peiris’s variety was evident in his dismissals of Rachin Ravindra, who was bowled around his legs in the first innings and trapped lbw in the second.
“He gave me a lot of support,” Jayasuriya added. “One bowler usually has to do the holding job, while the other attacks.”
Despite Sri Lanka’s significant advantage, Jayasuriya remains cautious. He acknowledges that New Zealand’s batters are capable of better performances.
“They were on the field for 600 runs and perhaps they were a bit tired,” Jayasuriya said. “But I think they are a good side. Their top order has some experienced players.”
“We cannot take things lightly. What we do in the first hour will be crucial. We just need to bowl good deliveries.”
