New Zealand vs Sri Lanka


Based on early form, Sri Lanka seems to be the team to beat continuing to weave webs around most batting sides while their willow-men continue to stamp early authority.  Like Windies less than a week ago, NZ were shut out of their own innings very early with their last pair avoiding almost eerie comparisons to that rout.

Murali seems intent on punishing any remaining doubters as to his legitimate stature as the game's greatest spin-man ever by putting on another high-pressure virtuoso performance.  His castling of Oram would be considered hilarious if only for the fact that most of us observers fear we would also have looked as foolish trying to negotiate his line and turn today.

The rest of the game was academic with Sri Lanka front four putting away another game with little worry.

Divali (spelt with a 'v' in Trinidad) brings us our game's oldest gladiators in what should be an easy romp for Oz but hey, who knows?