Rain washed out the fifth and final day's play of the first test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on Wednesday after the visitors had virtually assured themselves of a draw with a battling second innings performance on the fourth day.

Rain washes out final day in New Zealand as Sri Lanka hold on

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson provided a batting masterclass against Sri Lanka in Wellington on Sunday to keep up his chase of Virat Kohli to become the world's top Test batsman, just as the Indian skipper was showing his class in Perth.

NZvsSL: Williamson masterclass puts New Zealand in strong position against Sri Lanka

New Zealand cricket coach Gary Stead has a conundrum ahead of him as he mulls over the selection of a spinner for the first test against Sri Lanka, with only one likely to be picked.

Spin conundrum for New Zealand ahead of Sri Lanka challenge