A bat-once-and-bat-well scenario is looming for the Black Caps at Galle

Four half-century partnerships have guided New Zealand to 255 for four, a deficit of 50 at stumps on the second day of the first cricket test against Sri Lanka.

Tom Latham top-scored with 70 and Kane Williamson made 55.

Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell are in an unbeaten 59-run fifth-wicket stand.

Latham says the top order's commitment was admirable.