Tim Southee Reflects on Positives Despite New Zealand's Loss to Sri Lanka in Galle Test

New Zealand Skipper Tim Southee acknowledges the team's efforts and highlights positive takeaways despite a tough loss to Sri Lanka in the first Test match at the Galle International Stadium.

New Zealand skipper Tim Southee expressed optimism on Monday, highlighting 'positives' for his team despite their defeat to Sri Lanka in the first Test match in Galle. Sri Lanka secured a 63-run victory over New Zealand at the Galle International Stadium.

At the post-match presentation, Southee admitted their disappointment about the loss but praised his team's effort. 'It was a good test match in a tough environment. There are plenty of positives for us to take away, but we are disappointed to lose,' said Southee. He lauded Rachin Ravindra's performance, adding, 'We've been excited about Ravindra; his effort on this wicket was commendable.'

Earlier Monday, Prabath Jayasuriya's pivotal performance, including a five-wicket haul, helped the hosts reclaim momentum. Jayasuriya also claimed Player of the Match honors with his figures of 9/204.

Sri Lanka opted to bat first, with Kamindu Mendis' 114 propelling his team to 305. New Zealand responded with 340, led by Tom Latham's 70 and Kane Williamson's 55. Dimuth Karunaratne's 83 and Dinesh Chandimal's 61 set New Zealand a target of 275, which the Kiwis failed to meet, closing their innings at 211.

(With inputs from agencies.)