Dinesh Chandimal's impressive century (116) led Sri Lanka to a dominant position on the first day of the second Test against New Zealand in Galle. Angelo Matthews (78*) and Kamindu Mendis (51*) also contributed significantly with half-centuries, while Dimuth Karunaratne (46) provided a solid foundation. Sri Lanka finished the day at 306 for 3.
Sri Lanka Dominates Day 1 against New Zealand
The Sri Lankan batting lineup formed two partnerships over 50 runs, with Karunratne and Chandimal sharing a 122-run partnership at the top. New Zealand's bowling attack struggled to make significant breakthroughs, managing to take only one wicket in each session of the day. The pitch, which appeared dry in the first session, settled down as the day progressed. The visitors also faced fielding lapses, dropping three catches off William O'Rourke's bowling and missing a stumping opportunity for Karunaratne off Tom Blundell.
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Dinesh Chandimal shines with a splendid century
After the tea break, Sri Lanka continued their positive momentum, with Ajaz Patel conceding boundaries to Matthews and Chandimal. Chandimal's innings came to an end when he was dismissed by Glenn Phillips, who cleaned him up with a well-directed offspin delivery.
The in-form Kamindu Mendis joined the crease and quickly settled into his innings, hitting two boundaries off Southee. Despite the introduction of the second new ball, Sri Lanka maintained their aggressive approach, scoring regular boundaries. However, fielding errors continued to plague New Zealand, with Daryl Mitchell dropping his second catch of the day and Tom Latham also missing a catch.
Mendis continued to impress, scoring two boundaries and a six off Ajaz Patel in two overs. He later reverse-swept Mitchell Santner for four to bring up his half-century.
Earlier in the day, Pathum Nissanka was dismissed early on, caught behind off the new ball. However, Chandimal and Karunaratne formed a strong partnership, reaching the 100-run mark in the first session. Karunaratne was unfortunate to be run out for 46 after a mix-up with Chandimal. Chandimal continued to excel in the afternoon session, reaching his 16th Test century. Angelo Matthews survived a close call when he was given out caught behind, but the decision was overturned due to overstepping by O'Rourke.
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