(Web Desk) - Sri Lanka beat New Zealand by an innings and 154 runs in Galle in the second Test. With this comprehensive win, Sri Lanka took the series 2-0 and consolidated their position further on the ICC World Test Championship Standings. Though they remain in third place, they have now improved their point percentage to 55.55%.
On the other hand, New Zealand who began the series in the third place in the WTC standings, have slipped down to the seventh position with a 37.5% point percentage. This means England, Bangladesh, and South Africa, all jump by one place to be placed at fourth, fifth, and sixth spot respectively.
Sri Lanka elected to bat first after winning the toss in the second Test. Tons from Dinesh Chandimal (116), Kamindu Mendis (182*),* and Kusal Mendis (106) helped them to a mammoth total of 602/5 dec. In New Zealand's first innings, Sri Lanka spinners took charge and cleaned up the Black Caps for 88 -- New Zealand's lowest-ever total against Sri Lanka in Men's Tests.
New Zealand's second assay was better but Nishan Peiris' maiden five-wicket haul in his international debut helped Sri Lanka to an emphatic win. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya was the Player of the Series for his 18 wickets at an average of 21.38.
Sri Lanka’s third win in the trot means they have a golden opportunity to secure their first-ever WTC Final. Sri Lanka’s upcoming WTC series are against South Africa (away, two Tests), and Australia (home, two Tests). A win in all of these games can see them further improve their point percentage to 69.23%.
On the other hand, New Zealand will look to recover the lost ground in their upcoming tour of India.