New Delhi: On the first day of the second Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in Galle, New Zealand’s cricket team donned black armbands as a tribute to Ian Taylor, the former manager of the Blackcaps and a key figure in New Zealand cricket. Taylor, who also served as the Director of New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and Chair of Cricket Wellington, made significant contributions to the sport.

Sri Lanka, after winning the toss, opted to bat first in their pursuit of a historic series win against New Zealand. The visitors retained the same squad that played in the first Test, while Sri Lanka made two changes, with Nishan Peiris making his Test debut.

New Zealand’s gesture of wearing black armbands showcases their respect and remembrance of Taylor’s legacy. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is aiming for their first series victory over New Zealand in 15 years, following their 63-run win in the first Test.

For both teams, this match carries high stakes, particularly for New Zealand as they seek to bounce back in the World Test Championship rankings.

Sri Lanka Playing XI: Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kusal Mendis, Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Nishan Peiris, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayake.

New Zealand Playing XI: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee (c), Ajaz Patel, Will O’Rourke.