Kane Williamson, the New Zealand skipper renowned for his composure at the crease, endured a rare and frustrating third day in the second Test against Sri Lanka. Dismissed twice within just four hours, his uncharacteristic departures left New Zealand reeling at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday.
Williamson’s first dismissal came in New Zealand’s first innings, when he misjudged a tossed-up delivery from spinner Prabath Jayasuriya and edged it to slip for just 7 off 53 balls. Following New Zealand’s collapse to 88 all out, they were forced to follow on.
In the second innings, Williamson partnered with Devon Conway in a resilient 97-run stand for the second wicket. However, his innings came to an abrupt end when he mistimed a shot off off-spinner Nishan Peiris and was caught by substitute fielder Ramesh Mendis for 46.
Sri Lanka capitalized on these breakthroughs and was five wickets away from a comprehensive series victory at tea on day 3. Spinners Jayasuriya and Peiris dominated the day, pushing New Zealand into a corner as they continued to search for a way out of a dire situation.
Williamson’s uncharacteristic dismissals highlighted the pressure that Sri Lanka’s spinners have exerted on the New Zealand batting lineup. The Black Caps will need to find a way to counter the spin threat if they are to avoid a series defeat.
