New Zealand didn’t have the best start to their Test series against Sri Lanka, losing the first match at Galle International Stadium by 63 runs.
Galle has historically been a tough venue for the Kiwis, with five previous Test defeats there, including one by an innings and another by 10 wickets.
The trend continued in this match, but despite the loss, two standout performers caught the attention of New Zealand captain Tim Southee: pacer William O’Rourke and all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. O’Rourke impressed with his pace, taking five wickets in the first innings and three in the second.
“Will’s had a very short Test career so far, but he’s certainly announced himself. We saw in New Zealand how dangerous he can be. He’s got the skills for a very good Test career. To come to his first Test in the subcontinent and take eight wickets is nothing short of special. He’s got a great head on his shoulders, and he’s a big guy, so there’s a lot to like about Will O’Rourke,” said Southee.
Southee also praised Ravindra, who scored 39 in the first innings and 92 in the second during New Zealand’s chase of 275.
“Rachin kept us in the hunt with that knock. We knew it was a tough ask, and it was going to take something special, especially with the wicket turning a lot in the last couple of days. It was a great innings in those conditions,” Southee added.