Sri Lanka Crushes New Zealand to Secure Historic Test Series Win

Sri Lanka achieved a commanding series victory over New Zealand by winning the test series with an innings and 154-run in Galle. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya and batsman Kamindu Mendis were standout performers, marking Sri Lanka's first win against New Zealand in 15 years and boosting their ICC World Test Championship hopes.

Sri Lanka triumphed over New Zealand in a stunning display, securing the two-match test series with an innings and 154-run victory on the fourth day in Galle.

This victory is Sri Lanka's most dominant against the Kiwis in 15 years, with left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya's exceptional performance, claiming 18 wickets, earning him the Player of the Series title.

Kamindu Mendis was named Man of the Match for his unbeaten 182, which helped Sri Lanka amass a total of 602-5 declared. Mendis also joined Sir Don Bradman as the third joint-fastest player to reach 1,000 test runs.

New Zealand struggled against Sri Lanka's spin-heavy attack, with their first innings ending at a mere 88 runs. Despite a spirited fightback in the second innings, posting a total of 360, the Kiwis couldn't overcome the hosts' dominance. Sri Lanka's win bolsters their chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship final.

(With inputs from agencies.)