Chandimal's Century Powers Sri Lanka on Day One Against New Zealand

Sri Lanka’s Dinesh Chandimal struck a vital century to lead the hosts to a strong position of 306 for three against New Zealand on the first day of the second test. Partnerships with Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelow Mathews were key to Sri Lanka's impressive showing, despite early setbacks.

Sri Lanka's Dinesh Chandimal scored an impactful 116 runs, forming crucial partnerships to help the hosts reach 306 for three against New Zealand on Thursday, the first day of the second test. Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka dealt with an early blow as opener Pathum Nissanka was dismissed in the very first over. But Chandimal's 16th test century placed Sri Lanka on track for a substantial first innings total.

Angelow Mathews remained not out on 78, and Kamindu Mendis on 51 at stumps, bolstering Sri Lanka, who already lead the two-test series 1-0. Mendis achieved a milestone by scoring a half-century in each of his first eight test matches. New Zealand's captain Tim Southee initiated pressure by dismissing Nissanka early, but the tourists failed to maintain it consistently.

Chandimal, promoted to number three in the batting order, initially struggled but later added 122 runs with Karunaratne for the second wicket. Although Karunaratne was run out due to a miscommunication with Chandimal after scoring 46, Chandimal ensured that Sri Lanka did not falter. He brought up his first test century against New Zealand by a single off Mitchell Santner's delivery. Chandimal eventually fell to Graham Phillip. Despite several fielding errors and missed chances, New Zealand's bowlers had some brief relief with Chandimal's dismissal.

(With inputs from agencies.)