Guptill anchors Kiwi runfest against Sri Lanka in Test opener

Opener Martin Guptill made a stunning return to form with a sublime century as New Zealand reached a commanding 409 for eight on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at University Oval in Dunedin on Thursday.

Put in to bat first, New Zealand made a brisk start before the dismissal of opener Tom Latham (22). Guptill then shared a 173-run stand for the second wicket with the ever-reliable Kane Williamson before raking up a quick-fire 89-run partnership for the fourth wicket with captain Brendon McCullum.

McCullum, who is playing the last test of his career in his home town, scored 75 off 57 balls, including 13 boundaries and one six, Stuff.co.nz reported.

Meanwhile, Guptill secured his third Test century in the process and was eventually dismissed by Angelo Mathews for 156.

Doug Bracewell and Neil Wagner will resume innings on their respective scores of 32 and 0 tomorrow.

For Sri Lanka, bowlers Suranga Lakmal, Nuwan Pradeep, Dushmantha Chameera claimed two wickets apiece.