New Zealand Hopes To Rebound After Their Loss In The First Test

Coach Gary Stead believes New Zealand must adjust to the challenging Galle pitch if they want to make up for their tough Test defeat against Sri Lanka

Rain delayed New Zealand's team preparations for the second Test /

Ian Omoro

The Kiwis showed resiliency by gaining an early lead in the first inning despite not having played a warm-up match, but Sri Lanka's familiarity with home conditions ultimately proved to be crucial in their narrow triumph on the final morning.

"For the most part, it was a very evenly contested match, with small moments shifting the game's momentum. These conditions are vastly different from what we experience in New Zealand. It's about adapting and adjusting,” Coach Gary Stead told reporters.

Wednesday's rain-delayed New Zealand's preparations for the second Test. The visitors will probably make a few adjustments in an attempt to even the series and continue their winning run against Sri Lanka, which began in 2009.

It seems expected that off-spinner Michael Bracewell will replace left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, who finished the first Test with just one wicket and four runs. Devon Conway, the opening batter, might be benched in favour of Will Young after failing to reach a half-century in his last ten Test innings. With Nottinghamshire, Young has had a successful county season and is a strong contender for the first slot.

Following their victory in the opening Test, Sri Lanka has risen to third position in the World Test Championship rankings. They could have a much better chance of making it to the Lord's final in June if they win the second Test.

Lahiru Kumara will be replaced by Milan Rathnayake, an all-rounder, according to confirmation from Sri Lanka. The addition of Rathnayake is anticipated to improve Sri Lanka's back-end batting.

Nishan Peiris, an off-spinner, will also receive a Test cap for Sri Lanka. He will take the position of Ramesh Mendis, who got six wickets in the match but had trouble with consistency with his lengths. Following a strong showing with Sri Lanka A on their tour of South Africa this month, Peiris, 27, has been pounding on doors.

William O'Rourke, a rookie pacer from New Zealand, caused Sri Lanka the greatest problems with his odd bounce, even though left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel claimed six wickets in the second innings.