NZ vs SL: Ball nearly drifts off the pitch in windy Wellington

The second and final Test match between hosts New Zealand and Sri Lanka witnessed a peculiar moment at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. The home side registered a series sweep of 2-0 against the tourists as they won the second Test by an innings and 58 runs.

Meanwhile, in the midst of the third innings, Michael Bracewell was caught up as the ball made a bizarre movement, drifting towards the edge of the pitch. The movement was due to the winds, which caused the ball to drift nearly off the pitch. Notably, Michael Bracewell picked five wickets in the match and returned impressive bowling figures (3/50 and 2/100) in New Zealand’s comprehensive win. 

Rob Williams@robwilliams_tv

Just when you think you’ve seen it all in cricket. High winds so single end coverage in Wellington. Here’s the supporting evidence…

09:33 AM · Mar 20, 2023

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New Zealand sweep series 2-0 

The Blackcaps had a magnificent series against the Lankan Lions. The first Test saw the Kiwis ending Sri Lanka’s race in the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23 final, thanks to a brilliant century by Kane Williamson. Tim Southee and Co. further extended their dominance over the Islanders after enforcing a follow-on and setting up a second straight win in the final Test.

The Blackcaps posted a humongous 580 in the first innings as Williamson notched up a majestic 215 whereas Henry Nicholls remained unbeaten on 200 off 240 balls. The Kiwis further stamped their authority as they dismissed Sri Lanka for a mere 164 and enforced follow-on. Though the tourists put up some fight in the second innings, the dismissals at regular intervals costed them the match.

Dhananjaya de Silva top-scored with 98 runs whereas Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Mendis and skipper Dimuth Karunaratne returned scores of 62, 50 and 51, respectively. Meanwhile, Blair Tickner and Tim Southee picked three wickets apiece to wrap up the contest on Day 4 and clinch the series. The two sides lock horns in a three-match ODI series starting from March 25 at the Eden Park in Auckland.