The second Test match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will be played on September 26, in Galle Cricket Stadium.
The first Test match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka played at Galle Cricket Stadium from September 19-23, 2024, ended in a thrilling victory for the home side. Sri Lanka, batting first, posted a total of 406 runs, with Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews scoring centuries. In reply, New Zealand were bowled out for 343 runs, with Kane Williamson top-scoring. Sri Lanka’s second innings total of 278 runs set a target of 342 runs for New Zealand. Despite a valiant effort from Devon Conway, New Zealand was all out for 279 runs, giving Sri Lanka a victory by 63 runs.
Team Overview:
- New Zealand: After a disappointing loss in the first Test, New Zealand will be eager to bounce back. Their batting lineup, led by Kane Williamson and Devon Conway, will be key to their success. The bowling attack, with Trent Boult and Tim Southee at the helm, will need to be at their best to contain the Sri Lankan batters.
- Sri Lanka: The home team will be riding high on their first Test victory. Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews have been in excellent form, and their bowlers, led by Prabath Jayasuriya, have been effective. Sri Lanka will be looking to consolidate their position in the series and secure a 2-0 lead.
Key Players:
- New Zealand: Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Trent Boult, Tim Southee
- Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, Prabath Jayasuriya, Ramesh Mendis
Head-to-Head in Tests:
The head-to-head record between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in Tests is fairly balanced. Both teams have had their fair share of victories. However, Sri Lanka has had a slight edge in recent years, having won their last two encounters.
Probable Playing XI:
- New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson (c), Henry Nicholls, Tom Blundell, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Matt Henry
- Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Kasun Rajitha, Vishwa Fernando, Lasith Embuldeniya, Nishan Madushka
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, September 26, 2024
- Time: 9:30 am PST (Pakistan Standard Time), 4:30 am GMT (Greenwich Mean Time), 10:00 am IST (Indian Standard Time)
- Venue: Galle International Stadium
Pitch Report:
The Galle Cricket Stadium pitch is typically a slow and low wicket that favours spin bowlers. The pitch is likely to offer some turn and bounce, making it challenging for batters to score quickly.
Match Prediction:
Given the nature of the pitch and Sri Lanka’s recent form, it is likely that the home team will have the advantage in this match. However, New Zealand’s experienced batting lineup and strong bowling attack could make it a competitive contest.
Possible Scenarios:
- Sri Lanka Dominates: If Sri Lanka’s batters continue to score runs and their bowlers can contain the New Zealand batting lineup, they could secure a comfortable victory and take a commanding lead in the series.
- Close Contest: If both teams perform well, we could be in for a closely contested match. The outcome could hinge on individual performances and crucial moments in the game.
- New Zealand Comeback: If New Zealand can get their batting lineup firing and their bowlers can make early inroads, they could stage a comeback and level the series.
The second Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka promises to be an exciting contest. With the series on the line, both teams will be eager to perform at their best.
