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Sri Lanka secured a commanding series victory over New Zealand, clinching the two-match Test series with an emphatic innings and 154-run win on the fourth day in Galle on Sunday. This triumph represents Sri Lanka’s most decisive victory over the Kiwis and marks their first win against New Zealand in 15 years.
Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya was named Player of the Series for his outstanding performance, taking 18 wickets across both matches. Meanwhile, Kamindu Mendis earned Man of the Match honors for his unbeaten 182, which anchored Sri Lanka’s formidable total of 602-5 declared.
With this innings, Mendis made history by joining the legendary Sir Don Bradman as one of the joint-fastest players to reach 1,000 Test runs.
Jayasuriya, who claimed nine wickets in the first Test, continued his excellent form, taking another nine wickets in the second Test as New Zealand's batsmen struggled against Sri Lanka’s spin-dominated attack. Debutant Nishan Peiris also contributed significantly, adding nine wickets to the tally, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.
New Zealand's troubles began early, as they were bowled out for a mere 88 in their first innings. Forced to bat again, the Kiwis showed more resilience in their second innings, posting 360— their highest score of the tour and in Galle—but it was ultimately insufficient to challenge Sri Lanka’s superiority.
Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner all scored half-centuries in the second innings, but the tourists required much more to compete with Sri Lanka’s dominance.
Resuming at 199-5, New Zealand lost three wickets before lunch on the fourth day. Despite some fielding lapses from Sri Lanka, including three dropped catches, they managed to wrap things up after the break. Jayasuriya dismissed Ajaz Patel, while Peiris claimed the final wicket of Santner, who was stumped by Kusal Mendis, securing the series victory for Sri Lanka.
With this win, Sri Lanka has now achieved three consecutive Test victories, enhancing their chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s next June.