2nd Test: Luke Ronchi reflects on team's struggles versus SL
New Zealand's batting coach, Luke Ronchi, has expressed his disappointment over the team's performance on the second day of their Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle. The Kiwis struggled to make an impact, with Sri Lanka amassing a formidable 296 runs for just two wickets. Earlier on Day 1, SL managed 306 runs. Despite trying seven different bowlers and bowling 124.4 overs before declaration, only Glenn Phillips managed to cause any significant trouble for the opposition. Here's more.
Ronchi acknowledges Sri Lanka's batting prowess
Ronchi acknowledged the advantage Sri Lanka gained from winning the toss, which allowed their batters to dominate proceedings as conditions eased. He noted that the pitch looked drier and harder than in the first Test, making it a favorable surface for batters once they settled in. "The surface is different. I think looking at it, just it looks drier than the first Test that we played, and it's just that bit harder," Ronchi stated after day's play.
Ronchi laments missed opportunities in 1st Test
Despite praising Sri Lanka's batters, Ronchi expressed regret over the missed opportunities on Day 1. He commended his bowlers for their efforts and strategies but lamented the failure to capitalize on created chances. "I think when you look at the bowlers, they toiled really hard, they tried different plans, different sort of tactics, to try and produce some chances," he said.
Ronchi outlines strategy for remaining Test match
Looking ahead, Ronchi emphasized the need for his team to focus on their game plan and not get overwhelmed by the task at hand. "Now, as a batting group, it's making sure we can apply ourselves," he said. He urged his players to stick to their processes and strategies that have served them well over the years. The goal is to take each ball, moment, and partnership as it comes without fixating on an end result.
3 centurions and a half-centurion for SL
Sri Lanka had three centurions in the form of Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis in their first innings score of 602/5d. Angelo Mathews also scored 88 runs for the hosts. NZ are 22/2 at stumps on Day 2.
