SL vs NZ: Here’s why New Zealand players are wearing black armbands on Day 1 of the 2nd Test

In a strategic move, Sri Lanka have won the toss and chose to bat first in the 2nd Test against New Zealand. This match follows their recent victory in the first Test held in Galle, where they triumphed by a margin of 63 runs.

Lineup changes for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka have made two significant changes to their lineup for the second Test. Milan Rathnayake, an all-rounder, has been brought in to replace Lahiru Kumara, a fast bowler who has been an integral part of the bowling attack. Additionally, Nishan Peiris will take over from Ramesh Mendis, aiming to bolster the team’s performance.

Reason behind donning black armbands

On Day 1 of the match, the New Zealand players wore black armbands to pay tribute to Ian Taylor, who recently passed away. Taylor had a distinguished career in various roles within New Zealand Cricket (NZC), serving as a board director, manager of the Kiwi men’s team, and chair of Cricket Wellington. The Blackcaps expressed their condolences in a statement: “The Test team is wearing black armbands on Day 1 of the 2nd Test in Galle to honor the passing of former BLACKCAPS manager, NZC director & Cricket Wellington chair Ian Taylor #SLvNZ.” This gesture highlights the respect and gr🙈atitude the cricket community holds for Taylor’s contributions.

The Test team is wearing ಞblack arm-bands on day 1 of the 2nd Test in Galle to honour the passing of former BLACKCAPS manager, NZC director & Cricket Wellington chair Ian Taylor

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS)

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Strong start for Sri Lanka in 2nd Test Against New Zealand

Meanwhile, Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal lead Sri Lanka’s innings as they opted to bat first. Sri Lanka have scored 82/1 wicket after 25 overs, with Karunaratne contributing 30 runs off 57 balls and Chandimal scoring 49 runs off 66 balls, featuring 9 fours. The duo has forged a strong partnership, accumulating 80 runs in 24 overs at a run rate of 3.34. New Zealand’s bowlers, Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, have struggled to take wickets, with Patel conceding 30 runs in 10 overs and Santner only 7 runs in 6 overs. The current run rate stands at 3.80, with 65 overs remaining in the innings. Sri Lanka maintain🦂s all three reviews, while New Zealand 🀅also have three reviews available.

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