In a Test match at the Galle International Stadium, teams have followed the sureshot pattern of batting first after winning the toss since the previous generation. Although the intention was to take full advantage of the batting conditions, the first Test match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand demonstrated the exact opposite goal: to avoid getting outclassed.
Gary Stead, the head coach of New Zealand, observed the disparity in the type of course that each team was given and made a suggestion on a smart move that either team may do to obtain the upper hand in the match.
“We discovered that the pitch may shift pretty quickly. Conditions may change very quickly, from being really nice off the straight portions to then spinning quite a bit on that fourth day. Therefore, I believe that every run scored in the opening innings is crucial. It’s just a matter of scoring fewer runs in the second inning if you can post as high a total as possible, according to Stead, who was quoted.
As all of the players are aware, setting the tone is crucial: Thilina Kandamby
Thilina Kandamby, Sri Lanka’s batting coach, resonated with Stead’s views since he emphasized the need of getting off to a fast start with both bat and ball.
Even when it comes to the ball, setting the tone is crucial in Test cricket. You may recall that we had a terrible day in Manchester as well, beginning with the bowling. After that, we made a full recovery. The good thing about it is that we recover pretty well, whether we’re bowling or batting. However, everyone on the team understands how crucial it is to set the tone,” said Kandamby.
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Given that the second Test will be held at the same location, it is possible that the ground may soften up earlier than usual and that both sides’ spinners would have plenty of turn to work with.
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