New Zealand's Grit Stalls Sri Lanka's Push for Series Win

Despite a dire situation, New Zealand prolonged the 2nd test against Sri Lanka past lunch on the fourth day, resisting Sri Lanka's spin bowlers. New Zealand reached 355 for eight but still trailed by 179 runs. Resilient innings by Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips delayed Sri Lanka's victory during a session marred by missed catches.

In a show of resilience, New Zealand stretched the second test match against Sri Lanka beyond lunch on the fourth day, despite facing a near-insurmountable challenge.

At the halfway mark Sunday, New Zealand posted 355 for eight, following a first-innings catastrophe that put them in jeopardy of an innings defeat. Nonetheless, the visitors still trail by 179 runs, clinging to the faint hope of salvaging a result in Galle.

Starting the morning precariously placed at 199 for five, New Zealand appeared on the brink of a swift downfall. However, half-centuries from Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips provided a semblance of resistance against Sri Lanka's imposing spin attack. Blundell's leg-before dismissal by debutant Nishan Peiris at 60 marked the end of a vital 95-run partnership, briefly reviving New Zealand's aspirations.

Phillips continued to battle, contributing to a gritty 64-run stand with Mitchell Santner before Peiris (5-155) claimed his wicket, securing his maiden five-wicket haul. Despite holding a dominant position, Sri Lanka squandered opportunities with three dropped catches ahead of the break, allowing Ajaz Patel and Santner multiple reprieves.

Sri Lanka, having secured a win in the first test by 63 runs, stands on the verge of clinching their first series victory over New Zealand in 15 years.

(With inputs from agencies.)