Black Caps won’t get carried away

Everything points to a New Zealand domination over Sri Lanka, but as sage observers will note, test cricket at the Basin Reserve doesn’t always go to script.

Just six days after touching down on home soil from a momentous 2-1 test series victory over Pakistan, the Black Caps return to familiar climes chasing a sixth straight test win over Sri Lanka who haven’t won in New Zealand in 12 years.

That was at this very ground, inspired by two of their greats, Kumar Sangakkara and Muttiah Muralitharan, a stark contrast with today’s first test when most patrons will struggle to recognise too many of the XI who visiting captain Dinesh Chandimal will confirm at the toss at 10.30am.

Sri Lanka arrive in Wellington off a 3-0 home series defeat to England, constant selection panel and coaching staff changes and an unconvincing draw with a ninthstring New Zealand XI in Napier. Former skipper Angelo Mathews’ unbeaten century was one shining light. part and performing your role and trying to be the best you can be for the team, that’s basically all I try to do. Hopefully good things happen.’’

Watling toiled hard over the winter with wicketkeeping coach Marty Croy to be at his best in the UAE, and was satisfied with how he performed to the spinners. As a keeper you’re only really noticed if you pull off a brilliant catch, or make an error, and there weren’t many of the latter.

‘‘You want to catch every ball and be as tidy as possible. I enjoy watching keepers going about their work. Watching MS Dhoni and the way he keeps to spinners; Quinton de Kock has been amazing the last few years and taken some unbelievable catches.’’

For a test specialist frustrated by a lack of opportunities in recent years, Watling has a big 18 months ahead.

The test championship begins with a tour to Sri Lanka in August, then a December visit by England (two tests), three in Australia including the prized Boxing Day test, then two at home against India.

‘‘I’ve had a few niggles and the knees get sore now and then, but I’m really pleased with the way the body is now. We’ll see how the summer goes. I’m making sure I stay fit and healthy and go as long as I can play the game.

‘‘The test championship will be exciting and it is a goal to try to play as long as possible.’’