Sri Lanka dominated the first day of the second Test against New Zealand, thanks to a masterful century from Dinesh Chandimal and a series of crucial partnerships. Electing to bat first, the hosts lost early wicket with opener Pathum Nissanka dismissed for just one run in the first over. However, Chandimal, who was playing his 16th Test match, steadied the ship with a brilliant knock.
Chandimal formed a crucial 122-run partnership with Dimuth Karunaratne for the second wicket, keeping Sri Lanka on track for a large first innings total. Karunaratne himself was fortunate to survive a couple of chances, being dropped on six and surviving a stumping attempt on 17. He eventually fell short of his half-century after a mix-up with Chandimal led to his run out.
Chandimal, meanwhile, grew in confidence and reached his maiden Test century against New Zealand. He was eventually dismissed by Graham Phillip for 116 runs, but not before laying the foundation for a strong Sri Lankan score.
The visitors, New Zealand, were unusually sloppy in the field, missing several key opportunities to dismiss Sri Lankan batsmen. Daryl Mitchell dropped a second catch in the slip when Kamindu Mendis, who was batting confidently at the end of the day, slashed a ball from William O’Rourke. Angelo Mathews, who was batting on 78 at stumps, also received a couple of reprieves, being caught behind off O’Rourke but surviving as it turned out to be a no ball, and dropped in the slip by Tom Latham.
Mendis, who was batting on 51 at stumps, became the first batter to score a half-century in each of his first eight Test matches, showcasing his talent and potential.
Sri Lanka finished the day on 306/3, setting the stage for a thrilling second day of the Test match. The hosts will be looking to extend their lead and secure victory in the series, while New Zealand will need to improve their fielding and batting to stay in contention.
