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New Zealand captain Tim Southee showed off his incredible fielding skills by dismissing Pathum Nissanka with a stunning one-handed catch on the third day of the first Test in Galle. At a pivotal point in the game, this display of extraordinary skill gave the team a crucial breakthrough for New Zealand as they looked to further entrench their hold on Sri Lanka in the second innings.
Tim Southee takes Pathum Nissanka’s catch
In the second innings of Sri Lanka, William O'Rourke dismissed Nissanka with a back-of-a-length ball that was placed just outside off in the 2.5th over. Unexpectedly, the ball reared up and clipped Nissanka's bat shoulder, taking him off guard. As the ball appeared to be heading past the slip cordon, it was angling away, but Southee, who was positioned at second slip, quickly responded. Stretching his arm out to execute an incredible one-handed catch only inches off the ground, he dove full-length to his right. With this astonishing athleticism and fast reflexes, Southee made an early wicket that was crucial for New Zealand.
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Day 3 of New Zealand's batting saw a combination of reliable efforts and significant partnerships. After Tom Latham's strong 70 on the second day, Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell provided crucial runs to stabilize the innings. Lower down the order, Glenn Phillips made a significant contribution on the third morning, scoring an undefeated 49 to raise New Zealand's total to 340. Even though they were losing wickets frequently, their persistent strategy secured a narrow 35-run advantage.
Prior to this, Kusal Mendis' 50 and Kamindu Mendis' strong 114 combined to end Sri Lanka's first innings at 305. With five wickets, O'Rourke was New Zealand's most effective bowler. As Day 3 goes on, Sri Lanka has started their second innings and is now trailing by 3 runs at lunchtime (32/1). There is a fine balance to the play as both teams try to take the lead.
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