SL vs NZ, Ist Test: Match reached an exciting stage, Rachin spoiled Sri Lanka's calculations by hitting a half-century!

The two-Test series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand is being played at the Galle International Stadium. Chasing the target of 275 runs given by Sri Lanka to win, New Zealand scored 207 runs for 8 wickets till stumps on the fourth day with Rachin Ravindra's sensible unbeaten half-century. The Kiwi team needs 68 runs on the last day to win over the host team. Rachin Ravindra and Ajaz Patel not out 0, remained not out till the end of the fourth day's play.

New Zealand had bowled the Sri Lanka team out for 309 runs in the second innings after coming in to bat on the fourth day. Half-century-hitting batsman Angelo Mathews batted for Sri Lanka on the fourth day.

New Zealand made a very poor start to the second innings. At a team score of just 96, Sri Lankan bowlers sent four Kiwi batsmen to the pavilion. In such a situation, Rachin Ravindra, while staying at one end, not only scored a brilliant half-century but also strengthened the team. For Rachin Ravindra scored the third Test half-century of his career. He faced 158 balls and is unbeaten on 91 runs with 9 fours and a six. He has a big responsibility to make his team win on the fifth and last day. Apart from Rachin, only Tom Latham (28), Kane Williamson (30) and Tom Blundell (30) could face the Sri Lankan bowlers to some extent in the second innings from New Zealand.