Sport

First test will enter 4th day

18:32 pm on 28 December 2014

The Sri Lankan cricketers have managed to extend the first cricket test against New Zealand into the 4th day.

They've finished the third day at Hagley Oval on 293 for 5 in their second innings, still trailling by 10 runs.

Sri Lankan batsman Dimuth Karunaratne celebrates his maiden test century vs New Zealand 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Sri Lanka started the day on 84 for no wicket, but lost Kaushal Silva and Kumar Sangakkara in the first session and Lahiru Thirimanne after lunch.

They were well placed before Trent Boult struck twice in the last hour, picking up century maker Dimuth Karunaratne and Niroshan Dickwella.

Karunaratne batted for 8 hours and faced 363 balls for his 152.

It has been slow going for Sri Lanka who have faced 125 overs in their second innings.

Captain Angelo Mathews, who is their last recognised batsman, is unbeaten on 53.

New Zealand cricketer Trent Boult in action against Sri Lanka 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Trent Boult has bowled 30 overs and taken 3 for 62, while Tim Southee and Jimmy Neesham have 1 wicket each.

The scores in the match New Zealand 441, Sri Lanka 138 and 293 for 5.

The second and final test is at the Basin Reserve starting on January third.