On day one of the first Test in Galle, Sri Lanka finished at 302/7, with Kamindu Mendis scoring a century after a rocky start against New Zealand's bowling. Kiwi rookie William O'Rourke made an impressive debut, taking three wickets including the crucial early dismissals of openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka. Despite Sri Lanka winning the toss and opting to bat, they faced challenges from O'Rourke and spinner Glenn Phillips, who ended with 2-52. Captain Tim Southee contributed one wicket, while Angelo Mathews received a blow that forced him to retire temporarily. The match is part of the World Test Championship, where New Zealand currently holds third place. The second Test is scheduled to begin on September 26.