New Zealand Vs Sri Lanka 1st Test - Sri Lanka in New Zealand, 2 Test Series, 2023 - summary

Right then, that's it from the coverage of this riveting Test match! New Zealand have taken a 1-0 lead in this 2-match Test series. Sri Lanka would be extremely disappointed. These two sides will meet again 17th March for the second Test match. Sri Lanka would certainly come out all guns blazing as they will look to avenge this defeat. The first ball will be at 3.30 am IST (10 pm GMT, previous day). But you can join us early for the build-up. Until then, take care and goodbye!

Daryl Mitchell wins the Man of the Match award for his outstanding effort with the bat across both the innings. 

It was rather a forgetful start with the blade for Sri Lanka when they came back out to set a target for the hosts. Blair Tickner finally enjoyed some time out with the ball in hand after being sent to the cleaners in the first innings, where he leaked 103 runs. Tickner though redeemed himself as he ran through the Sri Lankan top-order with quite some ease and picked up three wickets to put the opposition on the back foot early on. Then came the veteran, Angelo Mathews who brought some calmness back in the middle, with his experienced strokeplay. He was well supported by Dinesh Chandimal initially and later by Dhananjaya de Silva. Mathews went on to score his century but slipped out soon after. Dhananjaya de Silva then anchored the innings really well and remained unbeaten at 47 runs but rather saw wickets falling regularly at the other end. In the end, they posted a target of 285 runs. During this innings, New Zealand bowlers were struggling to find their rhythm. To add to the misery, Neil Wagner endured a hamstring injury which kept him off the field. Although, Matt Henry took the matter into his own injured hands, as he was playing with three stitches between his thumb and index finger, that too, on his bowling hand. He was the one who got the timely wicket of Angelo Mathews to shift the momentum back on their side. 

In reply, New Zealand were off to a positive start. Their openers set the tone of their innings with a 67-run opening stand, but once Conway slipped out, some sort of floodgates opened up and Sri Lankan seamers made the most of it by sending back Kane Williamson and Henry Nicholls cheaply. Tom Latham though continued on his merry way, racked up a half-century but could not convert it into a three-digit score. Then it was mainly a Daryl Mitchell show, along with the tail-enders and boy, they turned things around completely. One would've thought Sri Lanka would head back into the third innings with some handy lead, instead, it all went haywire for them. Mitchell cut down a chunk of the deficit with his fifth century in Test cricket. The tail-enders later flexed their muscles and got a lead of 18 runs. For Sri Lanka, their bowlers were on song. It was rather a collective effort to bundle out New Zealand for 373 runs. Asitha Fernando stood out with his four-fer. 

So, this is how it all started. New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first. The deck was green to start with on Day 1, with gloomy conditions as well. So bowling first was an ideal decision. Although, it did not go as per plan for the Kiwis. Sri Lanka lost an early wicket in the form of Oshada Fernando, but that certainly did not peg them back. Dimuth Karunaratne forged an alliance with Kusal Mendis for the second-wicket stand and stitched the highest partnership of the innings to get back them on track. Mendis took the aggressive approach while Dimuth Karunaratne was happy playing the second fiddle. The middle order got off to starts but could not make it count. Later, the tail-enders added some valuable runs to post 355 runs on the scoreboard. For the hosts, Tim Southee and Matt Henry bowled well in tandem and combined for 9 wickets in total. The skipper stood out with his five-wicket haul. 

Sri Lanka might've thought that had a sniff, although, Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell joined forces and kept the bowlers at bay. Daryl Mitchell was the aggressor while Kane Williamson made sure to keep the runs ticking. The two stitched a stand of 142 runs. At this point, the Kiwis were cruising along really well and even had the run rate in check. But just when things looked easy, it was Asitha Fernando who turned up the heat with the ball in hand. He got rid of Daryl Mitchell on 81 runs. Soon after, Tom Blundell was sent back cheaply by a lethal yorker from Fernando. The game was hanging on a knife's edge till the very end since these two wickets fell. But this Sri Lanka bowling attack could not get the better of Kane Williamson. The ex-skipper made a valuable contribution with his ton and this victory wouldn't have been possible if Williamson had failed to find the boundary on the third last delivery of this Test match. Surely, a dagger through the heart of Sri Lanka. They gave it their all but might feel that they lost at certain moments in this Test match. This Sri Lankan unit will certainly take the learnings from this game. 

So, it was not an ideal start to the action on Day 5, as the rain gods occupied the field initially. Credit to the groundstaff though who managed to clear things off pretty quickly once the rain passed by and presented us with an intriguing contest. The equation was pretty simple, New Zealand needed 257 runs in 53 overs. Kane Williamson and Tom Latham walked out at the crease to continue their innings. The two negotiated the seamers really well early on. Dimuth Karunaratne then decided to bring Prabath Jayasuriya into the attack and that changed the scenario a bit, as he got rid of Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls in quick succession. This put the Kiwis on the back foot.

Oh my god! Who would've thought that after a four-and-a-half-hour delay, we would be treated with a nail-biting finish to this Test match. Boy oh boy! This New Zealand team is getting red-ball cricket back to life. Sri Lanka had to win this Test match to keep their WTC finals hopes alive and they surely gave a run for their money. Although, in the end, Kane Williamson proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, byes, 1 run, THAT'S IT! New Zealand win by 2 wickets! Unreal scenes at the Hagley Oval. Asitha Fernando goes short again and bowls it at the batter, Kane Williamson shuffles across to pull this one on the leg side but misses again. Niroshan Dickwella behind the wicket pouches it safely and fires a throw at the striker's end as the batters look to sneak in a bye. He does not hit and his throw is collected by Asitha Fernando in the middle of the pitch. Fernando picks the ball, turns around and hits at the non-strikers' end. Sri Lanka think they have got their man but the replays show that the dive by Kane Williamson helped him make his ground by the barest of margins. Sri Lanka are dejected but you gotta stand up and applaud Kane Williamson for his outstanding knock. 

WOW! The lights have come on for the final ball. Felt like the gods took a click there. 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Banged in short and around off, Kane Williamson goes for the pull but does not get any bat on it. He has a look a the square leg umpire who deems the ball to be below the batter's head. New Zealand need 1 off the last ball. 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! BEAUTIFUL SHOT! The scores are level now. Asitha Fernando bowls it full and outside off, Kane Williamson picks the length early and leans into the drive. Creams the drive between deep backward point and deep cover for a boundary. 

Neil Wagner jogs into the middle. He does not look injured at all. Where did the hamstring tear go?

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, out, 1 run, OUT! RUN OUT! Another low full toss outside off, Kane Williamson gets across to the off side and whips this one towards deep mid-wicket. The batters complete a single but Williamson wants to retain the strike and calls Matt Henry for the second. Kasun Rajitha gets to the ball quickly and fires an accurate throw to Asitha Fernando at the non-striker's end. He takes the bails off and catches Henry short of the crease despite the dive. 

Is that a run out? The umpire takes it upstairs to confirm. The replays show that Matt Henry is way out of the crease when the bails were taken off. The big screen shows OUT.

Asitha Fernando to Matt Henry, 1 run, Low full toss outside off, Matt Henry reaches out to the delivery and hits it down to long off for a run.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Starts with a fullish delivery outside off, Kane Williamson swings his bat at it and gets it from the toe end of the bat. The ball rolls towards long on and he wants to come back for the second. But, he slips while turning and has to settle for a single. 

Lahiru Kumara to Matt Henry, 2 runs, Short of a length on middle by Lahiru Kumara, Matt Henry backs away and creates room. Flat bats this one back over the bowler's head. Ramesh Mendis runs around from long on and makes a good diving stop to save two runs for his side. A bit luck for Sri Lanka as Ramesh Mendis could've touched the toblerone for sure but there were just ropes at the long off region. It will be Kane Williamson on strike at the start of the next over with New Zealand needing 8 from the final 6 balls. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Back of a length outside off, Kane Williamson runs this one down to third man and takes a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Matt Henry, 1 run, Full and straight at the stumps, Matt Henry drives this one uppishly towards long off for a single.

Who walks out? Will it be Matt Henry? Will it be Neil Wagner? Both are injured and suddenly Sri Lanka are back in the game. Are they? We shall find out. So, it is the former that makes his way out on the crease.

Lahiru Kumara to Tim Southee, out, OUT! IN THE AIR AND GONE! Lahiru Kumara shortens his length and bowls it on middle, Tim Southee backs away and goes for the pull shot. Does not get it from the middle part of the bat and skies this one high in the air towards deep mid-wicket. Dhananjaya de Silva and Chamika Karunaratne run across from their respective positions for the catch. Dhananjaya de Silva goes for the catch at the last moment and hangs onto it. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Fullish delivery on leg, Kane Williamson flicks this one off his toes to deep square leg for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Nails the yorker at the stumps, Kane Williamson gets his bat down in time and digs this one out in front of deep mid-wicket. Chamika Karunaratne gets to the ball quickly and fires an accurate throw at the striker's end but Williamson is just too quick and safely makes his ground. 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Another low full toss angling in on off, Kane Williamson knocks it down to long on and retains the strike with a single. New Zealand need 15 from the last two overs. 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Bowls a low full toss near the tramline on the off side, Kane Williamson leaves the ball alone.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Full and tailing at the stumps by Asitha Fernando, Kane Williamson accounts for the inward movement and flicks this one to the right of long on for a brace. 

Asitha Fernando to Tim Southee, 1 run, Goes full again and outside off, Tim Southee drives away from the body and gets a thickish outside edge that flies down to third man for a single.

Tim Southee is the new batter in.

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, out, OUT! CAUGHT! Asitha Fernando picks his third wicket of the innings. Asitha Fernando serves a short ball, outside off. Michael Bracewell goes hunting for another boundary. He pulls it powerfully to deep mid-wicket but hits it straight down the throat of Chamika Karunaratne, the substitute fielder who takes a sharp catch in the deep. Is there a twist in the tale?

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full length, outside off. Kane Williamson whips it to long on and takes a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Michael Bracewell, FOUR, FOUR! Brute force by Michael Bracewell! Kasun Rajitha bowls a cutter and on off, Michael Bracewell picks the change of pace and waits for the ball to arrive. Thumps it back over the bowler's head for a boundary. New Zealand now need 20 more runs to win. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full and angling into the batter, Kane Williamson flicks this one to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, On a length and outside off, Kane Williamson frees his arms and slaps this one wide of long off. Lahiru Kumara runs across to his left and scores a direct hit at the non-striker's end. The third umpire is called for but the replays show that Michael Bracewell is safely in. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Low full toss on middle by Kasun Rajitha, Kane Williamson places this one to the left of Lahiru Kumara at long off and comes back for the second.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Nails the yorker at the stumps, Kane Williamson digs this one out back to the bowler.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Full this time and outside off, Kane Williamson carves this one wide of deep point and collects a couple of runs.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, wide, 1 run, WIDE! Bend his back and bowls it short outside off, Kane Williamson looks to ramp this one over the keeper's head but the ball sails over his head. The umpire signals wide for height. 

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, no run, Banged in short and at the batter, Michael Bracewell goes for the pull but does not connect.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, TEST HUNDRED NUMBER 27! Kane Williamson continues his domination in the fourth innings of Test cricket. A crucial innings, right when his side needed it the most. It is full, wide of off. Kane Williamson reaches out and taps it to covers for a single. Kane Williamson raises his bat and soaks in the applause of his team-mates and the crowd. 

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, 1 run, Very full, wide of off. Michael Bracewell carves it towards deep point. They take a single.

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, no run, A short ball, outside off, swings in late. Michael Bracewell thinks about riding the bounce here but misses it completely.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Asitha Fernando fires it full, tailing into the pads. Kane Williamson gets it through covers off the leading edge. One taken. Kane Williamson is on 99 now.

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, leg byes, 1 run, LEG BYE! It is full, sliding down leg. Michael Bracewell fails to clip it away. The ball rolls to the left of the keeper off the pads. They cross for a leg bye.

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, wide, 1 run, WIDE! Asitha Fernando goes full, well outside off, even outside the tramline. Michael Bracewell leaves it alone. Wide called by the umpire.

Lahiru Kumara to Michael Bracewell, 1 run, Full and tailing in on leg, Michael Bracewell works this one to deep square leg for a single. New Zealand need 37 runs now. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Switches to short length and on off, Kane Williamson pulls it to deep square leg and takes a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Back of a length and tailing in on middle, Kane Williamson gets on the back foot and places this one gently between deep mid-wicket and deep square leg which allows him to come back for the second.

Lahiru Kumara to Michael Bracewell, 1 run, Tries to go full this time but ends up bowling a low full toss down the leg side, Michael Bracewell flicks this one down to fine leg for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Short again and on off, Kane Williamson stands tall and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Michael Bracewell, 1 run, Banged in short and at the batter by Lahiru Kumara, Michael Bracewell swivels in his crease and pulls it hard to deep square leg. Kasun Rajitha stationed there moves quickly to his left and puts in the dive. Saves three runs for his side with an acrobatic effort. 

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, 1 run, Low full toss outside off, Michael Bracewell drives it to deep cover and takes a single.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full and outside off, Kane Williamson leans into the drive and plays it to deep cover for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Michael Bracewell, 1 run, Full and straight, on the pads. Michael Bracewell flicks it to deep square leg for a single.

Michael Bracewell is the new man in.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Blundell, out, OUT! TIMBER! This is a brutal delivery by Asitha Fernando! Bowls a searing yorker at the stumps, a hint of inward movement in the air, Tom Blundell gets hurried and fails to get his bat down in time to dig this one out. Sees his middle stump pegged back and New Zealand are all of a sudden 5 wickets down. Do we have a late twist in this game?

Asitha Fernando to Tom Blundell, 2 runs, Fuller and outside off, Tom Blundell reaches out to the delivery again and drives it to deep point. Dhananjaya de Silva in the deep does not pick the ball which allows batters to run two. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Blundell, no run, Bowls this one on a length and wide outside off, Tom Blundell goes for the drive away from his body and is lucky not to edge this one.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Another well-directed bouncer, Kane Williamson ducks under and lets it be.

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Blundell, 1 run, Banged in short and on off by Lahiru Kumara, Tom Blundell goes for the pull but plays it a bit early. Gets an inside edge onto his right elbow. The ball rolls behind square on the leg side for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full and slanting in on leg, Kane Williamson clips this one off his toes to deep square leg and settles for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Short of a length at the batter, Kane Williamson ducks under and lets it be.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Back of a length on middle, Kane Williamson hangs back and turns this one in front of deep square leg which allows him to come back for the second. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Serves it full and outside off, Kane Williamson pushes this one back to the left of the bowler. Lahiru Kumara fumbles a bit in his follow through but batters decide not to run on the misfield. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Blundell, no run, Tries to go full again but ends up bowling a full toss on off, Tom Blundell pushes this one back to the bowler.

Tom Blundell is the new batter in.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, out, OUT! CHOPPED IT ON! Asitha Fernando nails the yorker outside off, Daryl Mitchell reaches out to the delivery and looks to dig this one on the off side. The ball catches the inside edge and trickles back onto the stumps. End of a brilliant knock by Daryl Mitchell. Do Sri Lanka sense an opening here? 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Fullish delivery around off by Asitha Fernando, Kane Williamson squeezes this one to deep cover for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Slower and into the wicket on middle, Kane Williamson ducks under and lets it go.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Serves it full and outside off, Daryl Mitchell drills it down to long off and takes a single.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Length delivery outside off, Daryl Mitchell plays this one back to the bowler.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Low full toss at the pads, Kane Williamson clips this one nicely but finds mid-wicket.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Another bumper directed at the batter, Daryl Mitchell goes for the pull but gets it from the upper of the bat. The lobs way in front of Angelo Mathews at mid-wicket and the batters cross for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Persists with short length and outside off, Kane Williamson gets on his toes and steers it wide of third man for a run.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Goes short again and on middle, Kane Williamson ducks under and lets it be.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Short of a length and outside off, Daryl Mitchell taps this one off the back foot to deep backward point for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Sharp bumper! Banged in short and at the batter, Daryl Mitchell goes for the hook but the ball climbs on him and he fails to connect.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Low full toss at the stumps, Daryl Mitchell goes for a big heave but gets an inside edge back onto his pads. The ball rolls to point for a single. Another good over for New Zealand. 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full and drifting onto the pads, Kane Williamson turns this one down to fine leg for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Immaculate placement! Asitha Fernando keeps this one full and outside off, Kane Williamson gets the width he needs and frees his arms. Creams the drive and gets it wide of deep cover for a boundary. 

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Another low full toss outside off, Daryl Mitchell drives it to deep cover and settles for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 2 runs, Short of a length on middle, Daryl Mitchell pulls it wide of deep mid-wicket and collects a couple of runs more.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, FOUR, FOUR! Sloppy stuff! Asitha Fernando starts with a low full toss on leg, Daryl Mitchell flicks this one wide of mid on where Chamika Karunaratne runs across to his right. He does not bend down low enough and ends up conceding a boundary. 

Change. Asitha Fernando now comes back into the attack.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Short of a length on off, Daryl Mitchell pulls it hard to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, leg byes, 1 run, Leg bye! Back of a length and tailing back into the batter, Kane Williamson misses the flick and gets hit on the thigh. The ball drops at his feet and batters sneak in a quick single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Lahiru Kumara serves this one fuller in length and on middle, Kane Williamson picks the length early and rolls his wrists. Clips it wide of mid on and collects a boundary. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, On a good length just outside off, Kane Williamson steers this one on the off side but finds gully.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Length delivery angling in on off, Kane Williamson allows the ball to come to him and blocks this one out.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Goes full and on middle and leg, Daryl Mitchell clips this one off his toes to deep square leg for a run.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Fullish delivery at the stumps, Daryl Mitchell knocks it down to long on and retains the strike with a single. New Zealand now need 78 more runs to win. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, SIX, SIX! Another tossed up delivery, full on leg, Daryl Mitchell gets down the track in a flash and swings his bat at it. Gets it from the bottom part of the bat but the power of Mitchell sends the ball over the long on fence for yet another maximum. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Full on middle and leg, Daryl Mitchell gets behind the line and defends.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Keeps it full and on off, Kane Williamson gets forward and works it to point for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Another flighted delivery on leg, Daryl Mitchell hoicks across the line and gets it from the inner part of the bat towards deep square leg for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, SIX, SIX! Daryl Mitchell goes huge! Prabath Jayasuriya gives this one air and bowls it full on middle, Daryl Mitchell shimmies down the track and thumps it well over long off for a maximum. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, BEATEN! A bit fuller this time, outside off. It nips back in off the deck. Kane Williamson hangs his blade away from his body but misses it completely. He gets beaten on the inside edge once again but no luck going Sri Lanka's way.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Lahiru Kumara hurls in a length ball, outside off. It jags back in. Kane Williamson looks to hit it through the line but gets beaten on the inside edge.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, It is full, sliding down leg. Daryl Mitchell flicks it through mid-wicket for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Lahiru Kumara dishes it full, around off. Daryl Mitchell pushes it back to the bowler.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 2 runs, It is full, around off. Daryl Mitchell knocks it down to long on and collects a brace once again. This is really good running.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 2 runs, Full-length ball, on off. Daryl Mitchell flicks it down to long on and gets back for two runs quite comfortably. FIFTY FOR MITCHELL! He has certainly picked things up from where he left off. He backs his ton with a half-century here. Incredible run-scorer Daryl Mitchell has turned into.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Full and on leg, blocked solidly.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, It is full, on leg. Daryl Mitchell gets low of the reverse sweep and gets it past point. Niroshan Dickwella puts his hands up in the air and appeals for lbw. Prabath Jayasuriya sees his wicket keeper's interest and joins in late. The umpire though is unmoved. The batters cross for one. The replays later confirm that it comes off his gloves.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, A bit short, on the stumps. Daryl Mitchell goes back and taps it out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Floated and full, on off. Daryl Mitchell blocks it on his front foot.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, On leg stump, defended solidly.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, wide, 1 run, WIDE! Prabath Jayasuriya spills this one down the leg side. Daryl Mitchell fails to clip it away. Wide called.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Flatter and on the pads. Kane Williamson flicks it to square leg for one.

Drinks Break! Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell are looking in complete control at the moment and are scoring at will. New Zealand need 101 more runs from a minimum of 15 overs to be bowled. On the other hand, Sri Lanka are losing their way here and they need a couple of quick wickets to make a comeback into the game. The umpire taps on his watch to signal the last hour of the game and we are all set to resume. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Shorter, in the channel. Kane Williamson steers it through backward point and crosses.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Length ball, on top of off. Kane Williamson defends it with full face.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Length and on the pads. Daryl Mitchell flicks it to square leg for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Good-length, on fifth stump. It jags back in sharply off the deck. Daryl Mitchell stands tall and tries to heave it across the line but misses.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, leg byes, 1 run, LEG BYE! A huge appeal for lbw but turned down. It is a full-length ball, around middle. It swings down leg. Kane Williamson tries to flick it away but misses and gets pinged on his pads. Lahiru Kumara appeals but the finger stays down. Dimuth Karunaratne takes the review. The Ball Tracking though confirms that the ball is missing the wickets. The batters get a leg bye in the end. Sri Lanka though lose a review here.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Fuller, on off, tailing back in. Daryl Mitchell gets an inside edge on his pads. It rolls out to the off side and the batters cross.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Fuller, on middle. Kane Williamson works it to the on side off the inner half.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Tosses it up, full and on leg. Kane Williamson goes for the sweep shot. It catches the bottom edge and runs down to fine leg. Two taken.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, On middle and leg, blocked solidly.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, It is pushed through quicker, on leg stump. Daryl Mitchell prods and gets it past short leg off the inside edge. It is in the air but briefly. They take a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Straying on the pads, clipped to the leg side.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full, outside leg. Kane Williamson gets low and sweeps it to backward square leg for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Lahiru Kumara goes full, on leg. Kane Williamson tucks it through mid-wicket for a single. 109 runs needed to win now.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, SIX, SIX! All the way! Kane Williamson stays back to this short ball and pulls it over the fine leg fence for a maximum.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Full length, on off, Kane Williamson blocks it late.

Lahiru Kumara to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, In the air...safe! Some rub of green for Daryl Mitchell. It is a short ball, outside off. Daryl Mitchell stands tall and throws his blade at it. The ball goes high in the air off the outside edge but lands safely at mid off. They take a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Great fielding! It is a length ball, outside off. Kane Williamson punches it through the line off his back foot. Dimuth Karunaratne makes a sharp stop with a dive to his right in covers. One taken.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Lahiru Kumara starts with an inswinger, full and on off. Kane Williamson blocks it on his front foot. 

Lahiru Kumara (7-3-17-0) returns to the attack.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 3 runs, Good running! It is tossed up, full and outside off. Kane Williamson drives it uppishly over covers. The batters take three runs before the fielder cuts it out. Daryl Mitchell is doing really well to push for these extra runs here and Kane Williamson is obliging.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Darted on the pads, tucked into mid-wicket.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, A single now as Daryl Mitchell hits it down to long on.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 2 runs, Full and on leg. Daryl Mitchell reverse sweeps it down to third man and collects a brace.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Prabath Jayasuriya tosses it up, outside leg. It turns way across the batter. Daryl Mitchell goes deep inside the crease but does well to drop his hands.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Fuller, on the pads. Daryl Mitchell clips it to the leg side.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Wonderful shot! Pleasing to the eyes. It is pitched up, outside off. Kane Williamson leans in and carves it through the gap between mid off and extra cover. The ball has enough legs to reach the fence. This boundary surely spoils the over for Kasun Rajitha.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Kasun Rajitha hurls in a length ball, in the channel. Kane Williamson plays it late and dabs it down to gully.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, A length ball, that jags back in from outside off. Kane Williamson remains solid in his defense this time. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Kane Williamson rocks back to this length ball and punches it towards deep point. The call is for two and they get it.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, On a length, outside off once again. Daryl Mitchell takes a step across and clips it towards mid on for an easy single.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Good length, outside off. Daryl Mitchell taps it to covers.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Very full, on off. Daryl Mitchell pushes it gently down the ground. Prabath Jayasuriya hurries to his left but is unable to make the stop. One taken. 10 runs come off this over then. New Zealand are making their intentions pretty clear here.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, SIX, SIX! BANG! 150 is up for the Kiwis. Prabath Jayasuriya gives it some air this time, full and on off. Daryl Mitchell dances down the track and launches it over the long on fence for a biggie.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Daryl Mitchell prods to this full one and defends it solidly.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, A bit slower, full and on off. Kane Williamson knocks it down the park for a single this time.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Fuller, on off. Kane Williamson lofts it inside out over extra covers. Two taken.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Floated and full, on middle. Kane Williamson presses forward and smothers it into the deck.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Fraction short, on off. Daryl Mitchell stands tall and taps it back to the bowler.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, On a length, outside off. Daryl Mitchell comes across and fends it into covers.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full length, around off. Kane Williamson drives it uppishly through point. Fortunately, it goes through the gap. One taken.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Much fuller, in the channel. Kane Williamson shuffles and lets it be.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Swing and a miss! Good length, outside off. shaping further away. Kane Williamson goes after it but misses.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, A length ball, outside off. Daryl Mitchell charges down the wicket and clips it in front of long on. The batters take a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Tossed up, around leg. It turns away sharply. Kane Williamson plays it late and dabs it into the wicket. This stand is looking really solid now for the hosts.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Another single now as Daryl Mitchell pushes this full ball firmly down the ground.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Shorter, on middle and leg. Kane Williamson goes back and knocks it down to long off for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Daryl Mitchell now gets the reverse sweep out and gets it past the slip fielder. One taken.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, It is fuller, on leg. Daryl Mitchell prods and gets a thick inside edge on it. The ball falls short of short leg.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Full and on off. Daryl Mitchell drives it down to the left of the bowler.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, On a length around off, Kane Williamson guides this one along the ground to gully. New Zealand need more 146 runs to win.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Full and outside off, Daryl Mitchell shuffles across and knocks it down to long on for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Length delivery outside off, Kane Williamson dabs this to deep point for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Goes full and around off, Daryl Mitchell gets to the pitch of the delivery and drives it down to long off for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Back of a length this time and outside off, Daryl Mitchell shoulders arms.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Starts with a good-length delivery shaping away near the tramline on the off side, Daryl Mitchell lets it be.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Short and on leg by Prabath Jayasuriya, Daryl Mitchell goes back and works it to mid-wicket for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Fuller again and on middle, Daryl Mitchell defends it down the wicket.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Tossed up, full outside off, Daryl Mitchell leans forward and keeps this one out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Flighted, full at the stumps, Daryl Mitchell pulls out the reverse sweep but gets it off his gloves. Luckily for him, the ball does not lob up in the air. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Full and on leg, Daryl Mitchell uses his feet to defend but gets it from the inner part of the bat towards short leg.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 2 runs, Floated, full and turning away on middle, Daryl Mitchell gets forward to defend but gets an outside edge that goes agonizingly wide of first slip. The ball rolls to third man for a couple of runs. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Much wider this time and outside off, Kane Williamson shoulders arms.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Lands it on a length and angling in just outside off, Kane Williamson gets his gloves out of the way and lets it go.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FIFTY for Kane Williamson! On a good length and outside off, Kane Williamson allows the ball to come to him and plays this one under his eyes. Taps this one past backward point and collects a boundary to bring up his fifty. 

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Fuller and at the stumps, Daryl Mitchell uses his feet and drives it down to long on for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Good-length delivery shaping away outside off, Daryl Mitchell is happy to let this one go.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, FOUR, FOUR! Kasun Rajitha keeps it full and outside off, Daryl Mitchell plants his foot forward and goes for the drive away from his body. The ball catches the inside edge and races away towards the fine leg fence for a boundary. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Short and down the leg side, Kane Williamson goes back to work it on the leg side but misses. Niroshan Dickwella behind the wicket misses as well but batters decide not to run as the ball rolls behind the keeper. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Another tossed up delivery on leg, Kane Williamson presses forward and keeps it out on the off side.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Floated, full on middle and leg, Kane Williamson pushes it back to the bowler.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Full and quicker at the stumps, Daryl Mitchell knocks it down to long off for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Flighted delivery, full on leg, Kane Williamson gets down and sweeps it to fine leg for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Tossed up nicely, full on leg, the ball turns away from the rough and beats Kane Williamson on the outside edge.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Keeps it full and just outside off, Daryl Mitchell lets it be.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, FOUR, FOUR! Goes with the inswinger this time but drifts at the pads, Daryl Mitchell brings his wrists into play and clips it through mid-wicket for a boundary. 

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Fuller and swinging away outside off, Daryl Mitchell steps out and shoulders arms.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Length delivery and going away outside off, Kane Williamson gets on top of the bounce and cuts it to deep point for a run.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, On a good length in the channel outside off, Kane Williamson gets squared up a bit but still manages to defend this one towards gully.

Kasun Rajitha to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Full and shaping away outside off, Daryl Mitchell slices this one towards deep point for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Floated, full on leg, Kane Williamson presses forward and defends.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Fuller around off, Kane Williamson gets forward and keeps it out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Continues to bowl it at the pads and on a fuller length, Kane Williamson gets behind the line and defends.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Touch fuller this time on middle and leg, Kane Williamson watchfully keeps this one out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Flighted delivery on leg, Kane Williamson blocks this one off his pads. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Short and at the pads by Prabath Jayasuriya, Kane Williamson goes back and works it to short leg.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Lands it full and outside off, Daryl Mitchell goes for the drive but gets it from the outer part of the bat. The ball goes on the bounce towards gully where the fielder makes a sharp stop to his right.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Serves it on a good length and outside off, Daryl Mitchell drives it firmly but finds extra cover.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Bowls it back of a length and angling in off, Kane Williamson stays back and dabs this one to point for a run.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Shorter and outside off by Asitha Fernando, Daryl Mitchell punches this one off the back foot to cover for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, no run, On a good length and outside off, Daryl Mitchell takes a big stride forward and defends it back to the bowler.

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Back of a length and outside off, Daryl Mitchell withdraws his bat and lets the ball go through to the keeper.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Tossed up, full on off, Daryl Mitchell knocks it down to long off for a run.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Short and flatter on middle and leg, Daryl Mitchell solidly gets behind the line. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Short and at the stumps, Kane Williamson stays back and whips it wide of mid-wicket for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Loopy delivery, full on leg, Daryl Mitchell paddles this one down to fine leg for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Floated, full at the stumps, Daryl Mitchell gets forward and keeps this one out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Flighted, full on middle, Daryl Mitchell looks to push this one back to the bowler but gets an inside edge. The ball comes off his pads and drops to the left of short leg. 

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Fuller on off by Asitha Fernando, Daryl Mitchell drives it down to long off and retains the strike with a single. 

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 2 runs, Length delivery around off, Daryl Mitchell steps out and lofts it over mid off. The ball plugs in the outfield and batters run two. 

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, no run, On a good length outside off, Daryl Mitchell uses his feet to defend this one but gets beaten on the outside edge.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 3 runs, Back of a length on middle, Kane Williamson picks the length early and pulls it wide of deep square leg. Kasun Rajitha runs to his right and puts in the dive to save a run for his side.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Edgy! On a good length in the channel outside off, Kane Williamson goes for the drive away from his body and gets a thickish outside edge. The ball travels through the vacant third slip area for a boundary. 

Asitha Fernando to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Short of a length outside off, Daryl Mitchell advances and pulls it to deep square leg for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Flatter at the stumps, Kane Williamson pushes this one back to the bowler.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, 1 run, Short and on off, Daryl Mitchell works this one towards point and takes a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Short and on middle, Daryl Mitchell pushes this one off the back foot to short cover.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, wide, 1 run, WIDE! Short again and on leg, Daryl Mitchell gets inside the line of the ball and leaves the ball alone. It is wided once again. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Floated, full at the pads, Daryl Mitchell gets forward and defends it down the wicket.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, wide, 1 run, WIDE! Another delivery down the leg side, Daryl Mitchell lets it go and it is signalled as a wide. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, wide, 1 run, WIDE! Short and down the leg side again, Daryl Mitchell shoulders arms and the umpire signals a wide. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Short and way down the leg side, Daryl Mitchell leaves the ball alone. The umpire warns Prabath Jayasuriya for bowling this too far down the leg side.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Flighted, full on leg, Daryl Mitchell blocks this one out off his pads.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Shorter, on top of off. Kane Williamson hops and blocks.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Asitha Fernando hurls in a length ball, outside off. It nips away just enough to beat the outside edge once again in this over. 

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Short one, wide of off. Left alone.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, BEATEN! Asitha Fernando drifts in a length ball, on fourth stump. It shapes away late and beats the outside edge.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Kane Williamson stays back and taps this length ball towards point.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Length, outside off. Kane Williamson lets it be.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, no run, Fuller, outside leg. Daryl Mitchell blocks it out off his pads. A successful over from Prabath Jayasuriya comes to an end. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Daryl Mitchell, SIX, SIX! ALL THE WAY! An ideal start for Daryl Mitchell. It is full, on leg. Daryl Mitchell comes down the track, makes some room and launches it over the bowler's head for a biggie.

The centurion from the first innings, Daryl Mitchell walks out to the middle. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, out, OUT! CAUGHT! Prabath Jayasuriya is turning the game on its head here. He has picked up his second wicket of the innings and a crucial one. Henry Nicholls' struggles with the bat continue. It is tossed up, full and outside off. Henry Nicholls gets low and goes for the sweep. The ball takes the top-edge and lobs towards backward square leg. Kusal Mendis takes a sharp catch.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, no run, Floated and full, outside off. Some extra bounce this time. Henry Nicholls hangs his blade away from his body and gets beaten on the outside edge.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Darted on the pads, Kane Williamson clips it to square leg for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, It is full, down leg. Kane Williamson pads it out.

Drinks Break! Despite the loss of Tom Latham, New Zealand are in a decent position and are 196 runs away from a victory. Kane Williamson and Henry Nicholls are well set and will look to carry on the good work. On the other hand, Sri Lankan pacers have kept it tight but it was the spin of Prabath Jayasuriya that provided them with the breakthrough. The visitors will however be disappointed with the dropped catch of Kane Williamson in the previous over. 

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, Length, on off, defended to covers.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, DROPPED! A huge let off for Kane Williamson. Lahiru Kumara angles in a length ball and gets it to shape away. It catches the outside edge of Kane Williamson's blade. The ball flies low and to the right of the keeper. Niroshan Dickwella dives to that side, gets a hand on it but it does not stick in. The batters sneak a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Full length, on off. Kane Williamson fends it to the off side.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, A bit straight this time, on a length, around off. Kane Williamson stays back and defends.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Much fuller, angled into the pads. Kane Williamson dabs it back to the bowler.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, 3 runs, Misfield! It is a full-length ball, outside off. Henry Nicholls drives it to the right of mid off. Angelo Mathews hurries to his right but the ball sneaks through him. The batters take three with ease. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Consecutive boundaries to end the over. Kane Williamson now getting into the act here. It is a short ball, on middle and leg. Kane Williamson whips it powerfully through mid-wicket. It races away for four more.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Great use of the feet. It is tossed up, on off. Kane Williamson dances down the track and smacks it down the ground for four runs.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, Floated and full, outside off. Henry Nicholls gets low and sweeps it behind square on the leg side for one.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Kane Williamson now wrists this full ball towards long on for an easy single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Pushed through quicker, on off. Kane Williamson defends it under his eyes.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, Full, on off. Henry Nicholls fends it to covers and scampers across for a quick single.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, Fuller, outside off. Henry Nicholls drives it toward mid off. Angelo Mathews rushes to his right and makes a sharp stop with a dive. One taken.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, A length ball, that comes back in from outside off. Henry Nicholls fails to flick it away and takes a blow on his pads.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, FOUR, FOUR! Nicely played. It is a short ball, on off. Henry Nicholls rides the bounce and heaves it across the line for a boundary at deep mid-wicket.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Length, on leg. Kane Williamson clips it to mid-wicket for one.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Oh lucky! A short ball, on middle. Kane Williamson swivels and tries to pull it away. The ball dies off the inside edge. It almost sneaks inside his pad flaps. Fortunately, it does not deflect on to the sticks.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, Lahiru Kumara serves it on a good-length, angling across, in the channel. Henry Nicholls stays back and punches it through the line towards cover for one.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, It is full, coming in with the arm. Kane Williamson charges down the wicket and blocks it into the deck.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Full, on fourth stump, blocked out solidly.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, On leg, clipped towards mid-wicket.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, Full and outside off. Henry Nicholls shuffles across and goes for the sweep. He bumps it towards short leg. The fielder gets a hand on it. One taken.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, no run, Henry Nicholls prods to this full ball and blocks it watchfully.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Back of a length, around off. Kane Williamson knocks it through the gap at covers for one.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, A sharp bumper, outside off. Henry Nicholls goes chasing after it but makes no connection. One thing is sure that Henry Nicholls is not here to sit back at all.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, 2 runs, Full, angled into the pads. Henry Nicholls flicks it to deep mid-wicket. The batters take two comfortably.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, Lahiru Kumara hurls in a good-length delivery, wide of off. Henry Nicholls shoulders his arms at it.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, Swing and a miss! A bit short, wide of off. Henry Nicholls slashes hard at it but gets no bat on ball.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, Outside off, left alone by Henry Nicholls.

Lahiru Kumara to Henry Nicholls, no run, Length ball, on top of off. Henry Nicholls blocks it with a straight bat.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Kane Williamson now uses his feet and bunts this full ball towards mid off. New Zealand need 222 runs to win in 40 overs.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, A single now as this is worked towards mid on.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, It is a bit short, on middle and leg. Kane Williamson clips it to the leg side. The ball chips in the air off the knee of the short leg fielder. It lands safely though and they take a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Flatter, on the pads. Kane Williamson nudges it through the gap at mid-wicket. Two taken.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Kane Williamson lunges and defends this full one into the deck.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 1 run, Looped up, full and on off. Henry Nicholls comes long way across and sweeps it behind square on the leg side for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Incredible shot! It is full, wide of off. Kane Williamson waits for it and crunches it past point. The ball has enough legs to reach the fence. This shot should certainly boost his confidence.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Lahiru Kumara now angles in a length ball, outside off. It nips away off the deck. Kane Williamson has a poke at it but misses.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Full length, on fourth stump. Kane Williamson presses forward and defends it solidly.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Kane Williamson strides in to this length ball, coming back in from outside off. Kane Williamson firmly wrists it to the on side.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Good length, on fifth stump. Kane Williamson punches it to cover off the back foot.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, It is a length ball, angled into the pads. Kane Williamson clips it towards mid-wicket.

Change of ends for Lahiru Kumara. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 2 runs, Tossed up, full and on off. Henry Nicholls gets it past the slip fielder. Two runs taken. A wicket-taking over by Prabath Jayasuriya comes to an end. Sri Lanka need 8 more wickets to win.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, no run, Henry Nicholls stays back to the flat ball and defends it out late.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, 2 runs, Fuller, outside off. Henry Nicholls gets low and sweeps it to deep square leg for a brace. Henry Nicholls is off the mark.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Henry Nicholls, no run, Flatter and on off, blocked out.

Henry Nicholls comes in at number 4. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, out, OUT! CHOPPED! Dimuth Karunaratne's decision to bring Prabath Jayasuriya on has paid dividends here. Sri Lanka get the early wicket they were after. Prabath Jayasuriya serves it short, outside off. It grips and turns in a long way. Tom Latham rocks back and tries to go for the expansive shot. Latham looks to cut it away, but inside-edges it onto the stumps instead. Pressure on the hosts straightaway.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, no run, Floats it up, outside off. It grips and turns in with some extra bounce. Tom Latham goes back and nudges it in front of leg slip.

Change. Prabath Jayasuriya comes into the attack now.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Another delivery on a good length, Kane Williamson defends this one down the wicket. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Bowls this one on a back of a length and on off, Kane Williamson solidly gets behind the line and defends it back to the bowler.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Good-length delivery just outside off, Kane Williamson looks to punch it on the off side but does not manage to time this one well.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Back of a length around off, Kane Williamson stays on the back foot and keeps it out.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, 1 run, On a length and at the pads, Tom Latham turns this one down to fine leg for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, FOUR, FOUR! Glorious by Tom Latham! Kasun Rajitha serves this one full and outside off, Tom Latham picks the length early and leans into the drive. Gets it past extra cover and collects a boundary. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Back of a length around off, the ball jags back in sharply and cramps Kane Williamson for room but he still manages to defend it to point.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Keeps it on a good length on off, Kane Williamson gets on the front foot and defends it down the wicket.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Back of a length around off, Kane Williamson stays on the back foot and punches it to short cover.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Length delivery on off by Lahiru Kumara, Kane Williamson blocks it down the wicket.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, On a good length and just outside off, Kane Williamson defends this one solidly on the off side.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Starts with a good-length delivery angling in at the stumps, Kane Williamson gets behind the line and keeps this one out.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Keeps it full and around off, Tom Latham gets on the front foot and defends it on the off side.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Continues to go full and at the stumps, Tom Latham clips it nicely but does not manage to beat Dimuth Karunaratne at mid-wicket.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Full but down the leg side, Tom Latham goes for the flick but misses.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Full and around off by Kasun Rajitha, a hint of away movement, Kane Williamson presses forward to defend with soft hands. Gets an outside edge that rolls past second slip for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Serves it full and shaping away outside off, Kane Williamson goes for the drive away from his body and luckily for him, he does not edge this one.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, leg byes, 1 run, LEG BYE! Full and angling down the leg side from over the wicket, Tom Latham works this one behind square on the leg side, as it goes off his pads. They cross for a leg bye.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Fuller and on off, Kane Williamson drives it firmly but does not manage to beat mid off.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, 1 run, Full and slanting in on leg, Tom Latham clips this one to deep square leg for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Serves this one full and outside off, it was there to be put away but Tom Latham does not go fully forward. But, he still goes for the drive and gets an inside edge that goes on the bounce to Niroshan Dickwella behind the wicket. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, On a good length and angling in just outside off, Tom Latham stays back and blocks this one out.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Fuller and at the stumps, Kane Williamson gets on the front foot and eases it to square leg for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Lands it on a good length on off, Kane Williamson gets behind the line and defends it towards mid off.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Switches to over the wicket and bowls it full and angling across outside off, Tom Latham shoulders arms.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length and on off, Tom Latham hangs back and defends it on the off side.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Fuller this time and outside off, Tom Latham goes for the drive but mishits this one back to the bowler.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, FOUR, FOUR! Kasun Rajitha bowls this one on a length and outside off, Tom Latham gets the width he needs and frees his arms. Drives it past point and collects a boundary. 

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Serves it on a good length and seaming away outside off, Tom Latham covers his off stump and leaves the ball alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Fuller around off by Kasun Rajitha, Tom Latham takes a good stride forward and keeps this one out.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Bowls it on a good length in the channel outside off, the ball keeps low this time, Kane Williamson hangs back to defend and gets beaten on the outside edge.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, A bit too wide outside off, Kane Williamson does not bother to play at the delivery and shoulders arms.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, On a good length and outside off, the ball rises sharply after pitching, Kane Williamson watches it closely and leaves the ball alone.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, 1 run, Touch fuller and honing in at the stumps, Tom Latham goes back to a full delivery but still manages to push it towards mid-wicket for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length around off by Asitha Fernando, Tom Latham stays back and guides it along the ground to gully.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Continues to bowl from 'round the wicket and angles it on a good length and outside off, Tom Latham is happy to let this one pass.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Another delivery on a good length and shaping away outside off, Kane Williamson watchfully leaves the ball alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Good-length delivery on off, Kane Williamson stays back and defends it on the off side.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, A loud shout for LBW but turned down! Kasun Rajitha bowls it on a good length and tailing in on leg, Kane Williamson goes on the back foot and hops to whip this one on the leg side. The ball keeps a bit low and beats Williamson on the inside edge. Dimuth Karunaratne has a word with the keeper and the bowler and sends it upstairs for a review. The UltraEdge shows no bat but wickets is umpire's call on Ball Tracking. Kane Williamson survives and Sri Lanka keep their review. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Lands it full and straying at the pads, Kane Williamson clips this one straight to mid-wicket.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Much straighter this time and in the channel outside off on a full length, Kane Williamson gets on the front foot and leaves the ball alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Full and swinging away outside off, Kane Williamson does not reach out to the delivery and lets it pass.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length and outside off by Asitha Fernando, Tom Latham stays back and punches it on the off side but finds point. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Another on a good length and outside off, Tom Latham shoulders arms.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Good-length and around off, the ball jags back in and bounces sharply as well. Tom Latham looks to defend but wears it on his gloves. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length outside off, Tom Latham dabs this one off the back foot to backward point.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Banged in short on off by Asitha Fernando, Tom Latham hangs back and pulls it towards mid on but without any timing.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, On a good length and slanting in around off, Tom Latham watchfully leaves the ball alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Serves it full again but outside off, Kane Williamson is happy to let this one go.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Full and on middle and leg, Kane Williamson clips this one to mid on for a dot.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Good-length delivery shaping away outside off, Kane Williamson gets his gloves out of the way and leaves the ball alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Easy pickings! Fullish delivery and down the leg side, Kane Williamson does not miss out as turns this one wide of fine leg for a boundary. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Bowls it full and just outside off, Kane Williamson presses forward and lets the ball pass.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Starts with a full delivery drifting at the pads, Kane Williamson brings his wrists into play and works this one towards deep backward square leg. Opens his account on Day 5 with a couple of runs. 

Kasun Rajitha to steam in from the other end.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length around off, Tom Latham stays on the back foot and watchfully defends this one to point.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Good-length delivery tailing in around off, Tom Latham covers his off stump and shoulders arms.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, 2 runs, Tom Latham and New Zealand are underway on Day 5! Asitha Fernando bowls it full and angling at the pads, Tom Latham clips this one towards deep mid-wicket and collects a couple of runs. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Another full delivery in the channel outside off, Tom Latham accounts for the inward movement and blocks it out on the off side.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Keeps it full and around off, Tom Latham gets on the front foot and drives it along the ground to mid off.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Starts from 'round the wicket and angles it in full and outside off, Tom Latham gets forward and lets the ball go through to the keeper.

The match is set to resume. So, the players make their way out on the field for the first time on Day 5, as the rain gods decided to take over the field in the morning session. The hard work of the groundstaff pays off and we should be treated with some good cricket. Sri Lankan players spread out on the field. Followed by Kane Williamson and Tom Latham who walk out to continue with their blade. 53 overs is what the teams get, to stomp their authority. It will be Asitha Fernando to start with the ball now.

Update 7.49 am IST (2.19 am GMT) - So then, the umpires are happy with the conditions on offer and the game will begin at the aforementioned time. The players are out on the field going through their pre-match routines. 

Update 7.27 am IST (1.57 am GMT) - It looks like the wait game is finally coming to an end. The umpires are out on the field conducting the inspection and if they are satisfied with the condition then the match could set to be resumed at 8 am IST (2.30 am GMT). Let us hope we get going soon. Oops! The wait game has to go on for a bit longer here, as the umpires will have another inspection shortly, but there are still chances of the game being started as scheduled. 

Update 7.04 am IST (1.34 am GMT) - Finally some positive signs now. The rain has stopped. No umbrellas to be spotted as well on the field. The square covers are also being taken out now. So, only the deck remains to be under covers. Groundstaff are getting the rollers into use here. Nevertheless, there is still no confirm time for the action to resume. The umpires are scheduled to have an inspection at 7.20 am IST (1.50 am GMT). Hopefully, the rain gods stay away.

Update 6.09 am IST (12.39 am GMT) - We are afraid to bring you this news, but the live pictures show that it is still raining and the covers are firmly in place. However, the radar for the rest of the day is promising and if the rain stops soon we can get some cricket in what is expected to be an entertaining final day in the first Test.

Update 5.43 am IST (12.13 am GMT) - So, the official Lunch time has ended but still no sign of any cricket being played. The covers are firmly intact across the pitch. We are back to square one, some crucial time being lost here. The waiting game continues...

UPDATE 4.39 am IST (11.09 pm GMT, previous day) - The rain continues to fall in Christchurch and as a result, the umpires have decided that an early Lunch will be taken at 5 am IST (11.30 pm GMT, previous day). The weather forecast suggests that the conditions would be much better as the day progresses. Hopefully, the sun is able to peek through the clouds. Fingers crossed!

UPDATE 4.06 am IST (10.36 pm GMT, previous day) - No official update from the ground since that last update about the persistent drizzle. However, we still have time on our hands, but the rain needs to stop for the ground staff to get the field ready for play. Let's keep our fingers crossed.

UPDATE 3.32 am IST (10.02 pm GMT, previous day) - Okay, well! After some entertaining cricketing action on Day 4 in sunny conditions. The rain gods have decided to torture the cricket fans who were eagerly waiting to watch this evenly poised contest. So, the drizzle has been persistent this morning in Christchurch. The covers have been spread out over the middle of the park, mainly covering the pitch. Looks like we start the morning on Day 5 with a game that we don't like. Oh yes! The waiting game. Make sure to keep your coffee handy. Stay tuned for further updates.

Talking about injuries sustained in this Test match, we can not talk about Matt Henry. The pacer was bowling with three stitches on his bowling hand, yet that did not keep him at bay. Matt Henry picked up three crucial wickets. The main question though is, will he be able to turn on the bat? Not to forget, Matt Henry was exceptional with the bat in the first innings, as he recorded his personal best score in Test cricket. So, his services with the bat are as valuable as with the ball. Undoubtedly, these are two hefty blows for Kiwis.

Also, a huge concern for New Zealand would be that Neil Wagner who has been ruled out of the second Test match due to a leg injury and back injury which he endured at the end of Day 3. Neil Wagner was not even on the field on Day 4 as he did not pass the fitness test. So will he be able to bat if required? Looks like we will need to wait and find out.

Sri Lanka began Day 4 leading by 65 runs with Angelo Mathews and nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya at the crease. A well-compiled century by the former and handy contributions from de Silva and Dinesh Chandimal helped the visitors end up with a lead of 284 runs. With the ball, their pacers bowled exceptionally well but without much luck in the 17 overs. Sri Lanka would want to cash in on the movement on offer early in the morning and make early inroads. The weather in Christchurch isn’t looking promising, but let’s hope the weather stays away and we can witness an exciting day of cricket. Stick around as action on Day 5 is coming up shortly...

Having sent the top three Sri Lankan batters back into the hut, New Zealand were slightly ahead in the game at the start of Day 4. Matt Henry and Blair stepped up to fill the void left by Wagner’s absence and accounted for 7 wickets to skittle the opposition out for 305. In reply, the hosts had a tricky phase to negotiate before the end of play. They did lose Devon Conway early, but Tom Latham and Kane Williamson ensured no more loss of wickets. New Zealand will look to play out the first hour and pile on the runs once the scoring gets easy.

Hello and a warm welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to our coverage of Day 5 of the first Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch. After four days of riveting action, we have arrived at the final day with all three results possible.  

... DAY 5, SESSION 1 ...

Right then, the equation is pretty simple. New Zealand need 257 runs to take an early lead in this series with 9 wickets in hand. If Sri Lanka are to get over the line here they need to pick up all the wickets before Stumps on Day 5. Also, it will be interesting to see if Neil Wagner and Matt Henry come out to bat if their team needs them too. The action will continue on 13th March at 3.30 am IST (10 pm GMT, previous day), but you can join us early for the build-up. Cheers!

When New Zealand came out to bat, they were off to a cautious start. They even lost Devon Conway early on which got them on the back foot instantly in this run chase. Sri Lankan seamers did really well to keep things tight with the ball. They made the batters work really hard to get runs on the board here. Although, the visitors could not capitalize on the opening. Kane Williamson and Tom Latham stitched a gritty stand to remain unscathed at end of the day's play. New Zealand do have the pedigree in their batting order to get over the line here. But as we have seen earlier, Sri Lanka will give it their all with the ball in hand, as their qualification for the World Test Championship finals is on the line.                                                                                    

Sri Lanka would've wanted to extend their lead to over 300 runs to hand them some kind of psychological advantage but it was not to be. It were the New Zealand bowlers who turned on the heat with a fairly new ball, especially Matt Henry who went BANG, BANG and turned the trajectory of the game completely. Matt Henry got rid of Angelo Mathews and Niroshan Dickwella in a jiffy to get into the tail-enders. Dhananjaya de Silva then hardly found any support at the other end and at the end, Sri Lanka could only set a target of 285 runs. History though suggests that New Zealand would break the record for the highest run chase at this venue if they get over the line here. So, Sri Lanka would certainly back themselves to cause an upset here.

An entertaining day of Test cricket comes to an end. It was a hard-fought day for both the teams. The match is now evenly poised. All three results still on the cards. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Short and on off by Prabath Jayasuriya, Kane Williamson cuts this one hard but finds backward point. That will be STUMPS on Day 4!

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Flighted, full on middle, Kane Williamson gets forward and keeps this one out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Fullish delivery on off, Kane Williamson drives it to short cover where Kusal Mendis fumbles but it is backed up at mid off.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 2 runs, Short and quicker at the stumps, Kane Williamson goes back in his crease and whips this one through mid-wicket for a couple of runs.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Full and on middle and leg, Kane Williamson presses forward and blocks it out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, 1 run, Tossed up, full on middle, Tom Latham knocks it down to long on for a single.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Good-length delivery shaping away outside off, Kane Williamson stays back to defend and withdraws his bat at the last moment. 

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Back of a length and outside off, Kane Williamson gets his gloves out of the way and lets it go.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, On a good length and angling in around off, Kane Williamson shoulders arms.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Full length, wide of off, nips in late. Kane Williamson leaves it alone.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, Fuller, on off. Kane Williamson bunts it out to the off side.

Lahiru Kumara to Kane Williamson, no run, A length ball, on off, defended out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, no run, Full ball, on off, blocked out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, 1 run, Tossed up, full on middle and leg, Kane Williamson gets on the front foot to defend. Gets it from the inner part of the bat towards fine leg for a single.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Short and on middle, Kane Williamson goes back in his crease and defends it down the wicket.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Tossed up, fuller on off, Kane Williamson leans forward and blocks it out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Flighted delivery on off, Kane Williamson keeps this one out down the wicket.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no ball, no run, No ball! Short and flatter at the stumps, Kane Williamson gets on the back foot and defends with a straight bat. Prabath Jayasuriya has overstepped and it is signalled as a no ball.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Fired in full and on middle and leg, Kane Williamson gets forward and keeps this one out.

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Latham, no run, Another delivery on a good length around off, Tom Latham shoulders arms.

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Latham, no run, Continues to bowl it on a good length and shaping away outside off, Tom Latham does go chasing the delivery and gets beaten again. 

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Latham, no run, Brave leave! This delivery jags back in sharply and goes over the stumps. Tom Latham left this trusting the bounce of the wicket. 

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Latham, no run, Good-length delivery in the channel outside off, Tom Latham watchfully leaves the ball alone.

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Latham, no run, Bowls it back of a length just outside off, Tom Latham hangs back to defend and gets beaten on the outside edge.

Lahiru Kumara to Tom Latham, no run, Starts with a fullish delivery outside off, Tom Latham goes for the drive but does not manage to get it away. Gets it from the bottom part of the bat to mid off. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Flighted, full on middle and leg, Kane Williamson presses forward and blocks it out.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, FOUR, FOUR! Kane Williamson is finally off the mark! Prabath Jayasuriya bowls it short and on off, Kane Williamson picks the length early and rocks back in his crease. Punches it past point and opens his account with a boundary. 

Prabath Jayasuriya to Kane Williamson, no run, Floats this one full at the stumps, Kane Williamson gets forward and works it to short leg.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, 1 run, Fraction short and outside off, Tom Latham goes on the back foot and cuts it wide of backward point for a run.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, no run, Short and quicker on off, Tom Latham goes back and punches it to backward point.

Prabath Jayasuriya to Tom Latham, no run, Starts with a short delivery on off, Tom Latham whips off the back foot but does not manage to beat mid-wicket.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Good-length delivery outside off, the ball moves away and beats Kane Williamson on the outside edge.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Another delivery in the channel, Kane Williamson watchfully leaves the ball alone.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Length delivery outside off, Kane Williamson withdraws his bat and sees the ball go through to the keeper.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Continues to bowl a tight length around off, Kane Williamson does not push out hard to the delivery and lets it go.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, This one goes the other way, good-length delivery on off, and the ball straightens after pitching. Kane Williamson gets squared up and the ball zips past his outside edge.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, On a good length around off, nips back in sharply, Kane Williamson accounts for the inward movement and shoulders arms.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Bowls it on a good length in the channel outside off, Tom Latham plants his foot forward and opts not to offer a shot.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Length delivery going away outside off, Tom Latham leaves the ball alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Full again and shaping away outside off, Tom Latham covers his off stump and lets it pass.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Length delivery around the off stump, Tom Latham gets on the front foot and blocks this one out.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run,  Back of a length outside off by Kasun Rajitha, Tom Latham gets on his toes to punch it through the off side but gets a bottom edge and the ball drops at his feet.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Full and swinging in on middle, Tom Latham clips this one straight to square leg.

Asitha Fernando to Kane Williamson, no run, Keeps it full and outside off, Kane Williamson is happy to shoulder arms to this delivery.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, 1 run, Length delivery on middle and leg, Tom Latham turns this one down to fine leg for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Fuller at the stumps, Tom Latham gets behind the line and defends it down the wicket.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, byes, 4 runs, Four Byes! Asitha Fernando loses his radar and sprays a fullish delivery way down the leg side, Niroshan Dickwella dives to his right but it was out of his reach. The ball races away to the fence for a boundary. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Length delivery on the off stump, Tom Latham takes a good stride forward and keeps this one out.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, On a good length around off from 'round the wicket, Tom Latham goes back and defends it on the leg side.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Full and drifting at the pads, it was there to be put away but Kane Williamson fails to get any bat on the flick. The ball rolls off his pads to the left of the keeper. Niroshan Dickwella moves quickly and makes a good stop. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, On a length and swinging away outside off, Kane Williamson covers his off stump and shoulders arms.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Continues to go full around off, Kane Williamson gets on the front foot and defends this one along the ground to gully.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Full and going away on middle, Kane Williamson does get squared up a bit but still manages to drive it to mid off.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Fuller again and on off, Kane Williamson gets behind the line and blocks it down the wicket.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, A big appeal for LBW but turned down! Kasun Rajitha bowls this one full and shaping away on off, Kane Williamson does not account for the away movement and defends down the wrong line. The ball catches him on the back leg and Sri Lanka go up in appeal. Dimuth Karunaratne has a word with the keeper and goes for the review with 2 seconds left on the timer. But, the UltraEdge shows no bat and it is missing the wickets on Ball Tracking. Kane Williamson survives and Sri Lanka lose their review. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Back to the fuller length at the stumps, Tom Latham defends it with soft hands. Gets it from the outer part of the bat towards gully for a dot. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, FOUR, FOUR! Asitha Fernando goes short this time and outside off, Tom Latham stands tall and cuts this one hard. Gets it past point for a boundary. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, A shout for LBW turned down! Full and slanting in on middle and leg, Tom Latham plants hs foot forward to defend and gets caught on the front pad. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Full and on off, Tom Latham pushes this one to mid on. A yes-no situation but Tom Latham sends Kane Williamson back in the nick of time. 

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Full and sliding at the pads, Tom Latham goes for the clip but misses and wears it on the thigh.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Angled in on off from 'round the wicket, Tom Latham defends the line but the ball zips past his outside edge.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, EDGED! Three fielders go for it but the ball lands short. It is a full-length ball, angled in around off. It nips away after hitting the deck. The ball catches the outside edge, although it does not carry as Kane Williamson plays it with soft hands.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, A length ball, in the channel. Kane Williamson tries to defend it out but misses. The ball zips past the outside edge.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, BEATEN! Kasun Rajitha angles in a length ball, on off. Kane Williamson tries to defend the main line here but gets beaten by the away swing here. 

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, It is full, wide of off. Kane Williamson leans in and drives it toward extra cover but finds the fielder.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, This is much fuller, outside off and nips away sharply off the deck. Kane Williamson leaves it alone for the keeper.

Kasun Rajitha to Kane Williamson, no run, Good-length ball, in the corridor of uncertainty. Kane Williamson shuffles and shoulders his arms at it.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Asitha Fernando gets his first maiden of the innings. It is fuller, that lands outside off and nips in late. Tom Latham makes a solid leave.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Shorter, wide of off. Tom Latham watches it sail past him.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, It is full, angled in on off. Tom Latham blocks it out watchfully.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Three dots in a row now! On a length, wide of off, nips in late. Tom Latham is happy with yet another sighter here.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Fuller, on fifth stump. Tom Latham has no shot to offer.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, It is a length ball, in the channel, with some extra bounce. Tom Latham makes a good leave.

Kane Williamson comes in at number 3 for New Zealand.

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, out, OUT! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Kasun Rajitha draws the first blood here. Sri Lanka are off to an ideal start here. They will be delighted to see the back of Devon Conway so early on. Kasun Rajitha comes from 'round the wicket and serves a length ball, outside off. It just holds into the wicket a bit. Devon Conway ends up chipping it straight back towards the bowler. Kasun Rajitha jumps and takes a sharp catch above his head. 

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, no run, Touch fuller, outsid off. Conway leaves it alone for the keeper.

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, 2 runs, It is full, angled into the pads. Devon Conway flicks it firmly to deep square leg and collects a brace this time.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, 1 run, It is full, straying on the pads. Latham clips it past square leg for one run.

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, 1 run, Full length, outside off. Devon Conway strides across and dabs it to point for a quick single.

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, no run, A length ball, angling down leg. Devon Conway flicks it to short fine leg.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, 1 run, Full and on off. Conway bunts it towards mid on and crosses for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, On a length, outside off. Devon Conway hangs his blade away from his body and gets beaten in the process.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, Excellent fielding! It is a full-length ball, on fourth stump. Devon Conway crunches it to covers on his front foot. Dimuth Karunaratne makes a full-stretched dive to his right and makes a half-stop with one hand. Saves a certain boundary here.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, Back of a length, outside off. Devon Conway has no shot to offer.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, 1 run, Fuller, wide of off. Tom Latham times his drive well to extra covers. The fielder makes a half-stop. One taken.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, no run, Shorter, wide of off. Left alone by Latham.

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, no run, It is a length ball, that jags back in from outside off. Devon Conway get forward to defend the one that swings away. He gets beaten on the inside edge to get hit near the groin area. 

Kasun Rajitha to Devon Conway, no run, Kasun Rajitha fires it full, angled into the pads. Devon Conway takes a blow on his pads here.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, 1 run, Fuller, on the pads. Tom Latham flicks it to deep square leg for a single.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, A loud appeal for lbw but turned down! Kasun Rajitha dishes a length ball, angled into middle. Tom Latham strides in and looks to block it away but gets pinged on his pads. An enquiry is made for lbw but the umpire is unmoved.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length, on fourth stump. Tom Latham blocks it out solidly.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Good length, sliding down leg. Tom Latham fails to glance it around the corner. The ball brushes the thigh pads and goes to the left of the keeper.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, Asitha Fernando now dishes a length ball, outside off. It nips away and beats the outside edge.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, Good length, outside off. Left alone.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, Asitha Fernando angles it in, full and on off. Devon Conway drives it nonchalantly back to the bowler. Asitha Fernando gets low to his left and thinks he has got a finger on it, as the ball goes on to hit the stumps at the non-striker's end. Tom Latham though is save inside the crease here.

Asitha Fernando to Tom Latham, 1 run, Much fuller, sliding down leg. Tom Latham now opens his account as he clips this to deep square leg off his pads.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, 1 run, Devon Conway and New Zealand are off the mark here. It is on a length, on the pads. Devon Conway tucks it behind square on the leg side for a single.

Asitha Fernando to Devon Conway, no run, Asitha Fernando dishes a good-length ball, angling across, in the channel. Devon Conway shoulders his arms at it. 

Asitha Fernando will share the new ball from the other end.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Length, outside off. Latham leaves it alone. A maiden for Kasun Rajitha. 

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Kasun Rajitha now drifts it in, around off and gets it to move away off the deck. Tom Latham tries to defend the wrong line here. The ball zips past the outside edge.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Good length, angled in around off. Tom Latham blocks it watchfully.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length, wide of off, swinging in late. Tom Latham watches it sail past him.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Back of a length, in the channel. Tom Latham shuffles and leaves it alone.

Kasun Rajitha to Tom Latham, no run, Kasun Rajitha starts with a full delivery, around the wicket. He gets it to swing in a touch. Tom Latham begins his innings with a solid defense.