NZ vs SL, 1st Test: Williamson, Mitchell take Kiwis to thrilling two-wicket win as India qualify for WTC final
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NZ vs SL: New Zealand rode on former skipper Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell's masterclass to chase 285 to not only go 1-0 up in the two-match series but also help India qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.
The New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, at Christchurch, was on a knife-edge at stumps on Day 4 on Sunday (March 12). The Tim Southee-led hosts were 28 for 1 in pursuit of 285 after Angelo Mathews' stunning ton propelled the Lankans to set up a challenging target. On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), New Zealand batters rode on former skipper Kane Williamson's 121* and Darly Mitchell's blitz (81 off 86 balls) to end Sri Lanka's hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. The Islanders had to whitewash the Kiwis in the two-match Test series but with defeat in the series opener, they are out of WTC final race with Team India joining Australia in the finale.
Day 5 started with a rain delay. After the weather was clear, the Black Caps were set to face a minimum of 53 overs, requiring another 257 for a stunning win. NZ lost opener Tom Latham. Henry Nicholls played with positive intent but departed for a 24-ball 20. It gave a sneak peek into the hosts' mindset as they were going after the target. After Nicholls' fall, Mitchell -- whose century propelled the Black Caps to a slender 18-run lead -- came out all guns blazing. He upped the ante and brought some urgency to the chase while Williamson held his end as well. Although the former captain looked rusty, he didn't get bogged down to concede his wicket.
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Monday, March 13, 2023 at 5:30 am