Colombo, Sep 19 (Reporter) In a thrilling contest marked by intermittent rain, New Zealand demonstrated resilience on Day 2 of the first Test against Sri Lanka, recovering impressively after William O'Rourke's sensational five-wicket haul limited the hosts to 305 runs in their first innings. Following a morning session that saw only a few runs added to Sri Lanka's overnight total of 302/7, O'Rourke and Ajaz Patel effectively cleaned up the tail, putting an end to any ambitions for a larger score. The persistent rain left the pitch challenging for both teams, but New Zealand seized the initiative after an early lunch break. The Kiwi innings began with a solid 63-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Devon Conway. Latham showcased his aggressive style, punctuating the bowling attack with several boundaries, including two in a single over from Asitha Fernando. However, the breakthrough came when Ramesh Mendis successfully trapped Conway leg before wicket for 17, following a successful Sri Lankan review. Latham then joined forces with Kane Williamson, and the pair flourished, accumulating a formidable 73 runs. Latham was eventually dismissed for 70, caught at backward short leg off the bowling of Prabath Jayasuriya, prompting a shift in momentum. After tea, Williamson, who reached his 35th Test fifty, partnered with the dynamic Rachin Ravindra. Their effective left-right combination saw Ravindra contribute a brisk 39 runs off just 48 deliveries, keeping New Zealand on track. However, Sri Lanka's captain Dhananjaya de Silva broke the partnership, drawing an edge from Williamson that was brilliantly taken by Kusal Mendis. Ravindra followed shortly after, as Sri Lanka looked to capitalise on their regained momentum. Nevertheless, Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell steadied the ship for New Zealand, crafting an unbroken partnership of 59 runs. Mitchell's aggressive counterattacks, including a four and a six, propelled New Zealand to a commendable position as play concluded for the day. At stumps, New Zealand stood at 255/4, trailing Sri Lanka by 50 runs. The teams will return for Day 3, with New Zealand eager to build on their current momentum and Sri Lanka aiming to capitalise on their early breakthroughs. New Zealand 255/4 (Tom Latham 70, Kane Williamson 55; Dhananjaya de Silva 2-31) trail Sri Lanka 305 (Kamindu Mendis 114, Kusal Mendis 50; William O'Rourke 5-55, Glenn Phillips 2-52, Ajaz Patel 2-60) by 50 runs...////...