Calay News
Kane Williamson played an unbeaten century in the first Test against Sri Lanka, leading New Zealand to a thrilling two-wicket win off the final ball of the match. The victory ended Sri Lanka’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final in June.
Sri Lanka needed to sweep New Zealand 2-0 in this series to qualify, so India will now face Australia in the final at the Oval. The fourth and final test between the two sides in Ahmedabad finished in a draw, ensuring India won the series 2-1.
The Black Caps started the final day on 28-1, requiring 257 more runs for victory. After the first two sessions were washed out, the umpires ruled there would be a maximum of 52 overs bowled in an extended final session, meaning New Zealand had to score at nearly five runs per over.
They slipped to 90-3 before Williamson combined with Daryl Mitchell for a 142-run stand off 157 balls, with Sri Lanka left to rue wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella dropping Williamson on 33.
New Zealand wobbled after Mitchell was bowled for 81 by Asitha Fernando, who then also removed Tom Blundell and Michael Bracewell. It left the hosts on 266-6, needing a further 19 runs with 16 balls remaining. Captain Tim Southee also fell, but Williamson managed to take the match to the final over.
With one needed from the last ball, New Zealand ran a bye through to the keeper after Williamson’s missed pull shot, and he just managed to slide his bat down in time despite a direct hit at the non-striker’s end. It is New Zealand’s second thrilling Test win in a row, following their stunning one-run victory over England last month.
