The series is part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (2021-23), and Sri Lanka still has a chance to advance to the final in June if they win 2-0.
New Zealand captain Tim Southee hopes his team can build on their thrilling victory over England last month when they host Sri Lanka in a two-Test series that begins on Thursday in Christchurch. The Black Caps sent England to their second Test loss under new coach Brendon McCullum with an exciting one-run victory in Wellington last week, and the Kiwis now turn their attention to the visiting Sri Lanka.
The series is part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship period (2021-23), and Sri Lanka still has a chance to reach the decider in June if they win 2-0, but Southee wants to make it as difficult for the tourists as possible.
Southee is instead focused on his team’s preparations and ensuring that they capitalise on the momentum generated by England’s series against Sri Lanka.
“It’s been fantastic to see so many people talking about Test cricket, and to see the Basin Reserve packed for five days was incredible to witness. I believe the guys are generally pleased to see people discussing Test cricket. Test cricket is also thrilling. England has played a role in this over the last year or so. Test cricket is still regarded as the pinnacle of the game by the men “Southee explained.
“It will be a match that is remembered for a long time, but they are a very humble group. Our attention will now be drawn to Sri Lanka. We are clearly out of the Test Championship, and they have a lot to play for in the next two weeks “Southee elaborated.
New Zealand’s preparations for the series have not been easy, with key quick Kyle Jamieson still out due to a back injury suffered in England last year.
Former captain Kane Williamson has also been absent from training in Christchurch this week, as he is in Tauranga with family to mourn the death of his late grandmother.
“On behalf of the team, I believe everyone is rooting for Kane right now, and he is in the best possible place. That is with, within, and around his family. The Williamson family is going through a difficult time. Kane’s arrival is greatly anticipated. He’s been able to train with the Northern Districts players in Tauranga, so I’m sure he’ll be hitting a lot of balls and getting ready to go come Thursday “the Kiwi captain concluded.
