The second Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle took a dramatic turn on Saturday, as the Kiwi batsmen crumbled under pressure. Chasing a mammoth 602-run target set by Sri Lanka in their first innings, New Zealand were bowled out for a mere 88 runs, suffering a humiliating defeat. This result marked New Zealand’s second-largest innings deficit ever in Test history, with the team conceding a massive 514-run lead to their opponents.
This innings defeat also places it among the top five biggest innings deficits in the history of Test cricket. The biggest innings deficit ever recorded in Test cricket belongs to Australia, who were defeated by England by 702 runs back in 1938.
New Zealand’s biggest ever innings deficit in Test cricket occurred in 2002, against Pakistan, where they were bowled out for a paltry 73 runs, resulting in a 570-run defeat.
The top five biggest innings deficits in Test cricket are as follows:
1. Australia – 702 runs vs England, 1938
2. Australia – 579 runs vs England, 1938
3. New Zealand – 570 runs vs Pakistan, 2002
4. West Indies – 563 runs vs England, 1930
5. New Zealand – 514 runs vs Sri Lanka, 2024
This devastating defeat for New Zealand highlights the immense challenge they faced in their pursuit of victory against a dominant Sri Lankan team. The Kiwi batsmen struggled to cope with the challenging conditions and the quality bowling attack presented by their opponents. This match serves as a reminder of the demanding nature of Test cricket and the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.
