New Zealand completed a 2-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka after a comprehensive innings and 58-run victory in the second and final Test. Sri Lanka, having been asked to follow-on, needed a formidable 416 runs to force the hosts to bat again. Although they resumed on 2-113 in the morning session, four batters scored half-centuries, and Dhananjaya de Silva stood on the verge of a century by tea. However, a couple of wickets before and after the tea break, including De Silva’s dismissal for 98, tipped the balance back in New Zealand’s favor, and Sri Lanka crumbled to 318 for seven.

Tailenders Prabath Jayasuriya and Kasun Rajitha were able to resist for an hour before Jayasuriya’s dismissal for two off 45 balls. Lahiru Kumara then joined Rajitha in the blocking mission, and New Zealand became frustrated as the pair held on for almost 16 overs. However, Southee broke the partnership when Kumara edged the ball to Bracewell in the slips to be out for seven.

New Zealand was given additional overs to capture the final wicket, but it was more a race against failing light than trying to beat the clock. Fortunately for the hosts, Rajitha soon sent an edge to the slips where Kane Williamson caught it to end the batsman’s 110-ball vigil for 20 and wrap up the match.

The visitors’ 164-run first-innings total, despite a half-century by opener Dimuth Karunaratne, proved to be inadequate as the hosts amassed a mammoth 580/4 declared. Kane Williamson scored a magnificent double century, while Henry Nicholls remained unbeaten on 200. Matt Henry and Michael Bracewell both took three wickets apiece as Sri Lanka was bowled out cheaply.

The victory marks New Zealand’s second Test series win in Sri Lanka, having also swept the two-match contest in 2012. The Kiwis would be satisfied with their overall performance, having dominated the tourists in every department throughout the series.