A throwback to the past, a rest day during the opening Test match, is part of the schedule that Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) have revealed for their upcoming Test series against New Zealand.
Next month is when the two-match Test series against New Zealand is scheduled to start. This series is especially remarkable because the first Test at Galle, which is slated for September 18–23, will have a rest day. The reason for the rest day, which falls on September 21, is the Sri Lankan presidential election.
This unique six-day schedule has its roots in a previous age of Test cricket, when Sundays were frequently used as rest days, particularly in England. In 2001, Sri Lanka hosted a Test match without a rest day to accommodate Poya Day, an island nation full moon celebration, versus Zimbabwe more than 20 years ago. The last time a rest day was observed was during a parliamentary election in 2008, when Sri Lanka was hosted by Bangladesh in Dhaka.
To remain in the running for WTC final qualification, Sri Lanka and New Zealand will want to win.
Considering the current ICC World Test Championship, the series is particularly significant for both teams. With Sri Lanka and New Zealand in third and fourth place, respectively, both of them are currently well-positioned in the standings.
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Galle International Stadium, a beautiful location with spin-friendly conditions, will host both Test matches. The normal five-day format will be followed for the second Test, which is set for September 26 to 30.
Series schedule:
| Date | Match | Venue |
| September 18 – September 23 | Sri Lanka vs New Zealand 1st Test | Galle International Stadium |
| September 26 – September 30 | Sri Lanka vs New Zealand 2nd Test | Galle International Stadium |
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