New Zealand record long-awaited win

Tourists level series with 167-run win over Sri Lanka۔.

COLOMBO: New Zealand registered their first Test win in Sri Lanka for 14 years, dismissing the hosts for 195 on the final day and sealing a 167-run victory.

All-rounder Angelo Mathews offered dogged resistance, top-scoring with a fighting 84 that included one six and 11 fours before he was the last man dismissed after facing 228 balls. Earlier, New Zealand posted 412 in the first-innings and their bowlers, especially the pacemen, delivered in both innings.

"It's always good to come overseas and win,” said New Zealand captain Ross Taylor, who was named man of the match for his 142 in the first-innings. “The bowlers were brilliant. I guess we got a lot of stick last week for our performances, but we stuck to our task and fought hard."

Fast bowlers-Trent Boult and Tim Southee finished with three wickets in the innings each, while Doug Bracewell took two and debutant leg-spinner Todd Astle one.

"Credit to the New Zealand team as they played really well,” said Sri Lanka skipper Mahela Jayawardene. “This series has been good and tough at the same time. We need to improve against the new ball when we go to Australia (next month)."

Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Rangana Herath was named man of the series.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 30^th, 2012.