New Zealand clinched a series sweep against Sri Lanka with a comprehensive innings and 58-run victory in the second Test at a windy Basin Reserve in Wellington on Monday. The victory was secured on Day IV, after the Sri Lankan side was asked to follow on and needed 416 runs to make the hosts bat again.
Despite putting up a fight in the second innings, Sri Lanka’s resistance finally broke as they were bowled out for 358. New Zealand’s Tim Southee expressed relief at the win, stating that the final day forecast was not looking good. He added that the team was pleased to have wrapped up the series with a day to spare.
New Zealand’s title defence of the inaugural World Test Championship ended earlier, but the team finished the cycle on a high with three straight wins. These included two thrilling victories against England in Wellington and Christchurch, with talisman Kane Williamson being key in all three wins. Williamson was named Man of the Series for his exceptional performances, including a score of 215 in Wellington and an unbeaten century in the final-ball win in Christchurch.
Henry Nicholls was named Man of the Match for his unbeaten 200 in the second Test as New Zealand piled on 580 for four. Southee and Blair Tickner were the chief wicket-takers in the second innings with figures of 3/51 and 3/84 respectively.
Sri Lanka’s hopes of securing their first win in New Zealand since 2006 were dashed when their batters managed only 164 in reply. Despite the disappointment, the Sri Lankan side showed grit and determination to frustrate the hosts on a windy fourth day. The stiff Northerly was so strong that the broadcaster stood a camera crew down for safety, leaving footage from only one end of the pitch.
New Zealand will look to build on this successful series as they prepare for their next assignment, a two-Test series against India at home in December. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will have to regroup and find ways to improve ahead of their next series against the West Indies at home in May.
