New Zealand’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final hang in the balance as they prepare for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. The Black Caps have lost all five Tests in Galle, but their margins of defeat have narrowed with each outing.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, are brimming with confidence after consecutive Test victories under interim coach Sanath Jayasuriya. They have made two changes to their XI, bringing in Milan Rathnayake and Nishan Peiris for Lahiru Kumara and Ramesh Mendis.
New Zealand may consider replacing Mitchell Santner with Michael Bracewell, who bowled more threateningly in the first Test. The pitch is expected to be another rank turner, with Will O’Rourke, Tim Southee, and Asitha Fernando likely to create significant footmarks.
Dinesh Chandimal has been asked to move up to No. 3 for Sri Lanka, while Kane Williamson’s record in Galle is modest. However, Williamson’s runs have been a key predictor of New Zealand’s success over the past 15 years.
Sri Lanka’s Prabath Jayasuriya has an outside chance of becoming the equal-fastest bowler to reach 100 Test wickets, while Ajaz Patel has a strong record in Galle with two five-wicket hauls.
New Zealand need a win to keep their WTC final hopes alive, while Sri Lanka can move closer to Australia in the standings with another victory. The match is expected to be a close contest on a challenging pitch.
