New Zealand versus Sri Lanka Test Series, 2024

2nd Test

Day-1 Morning Session Highlights:

Dinesh Chandimal and Dimuth Karunaratne has provided Sri Lanka with a solid start

At The Lunch of Day-1:

Sri Lanka scored 102/1 (1st Innings) vs New Zealand.

Dinesh Chandimal’s counterattacking fifty (60* off 99) and his unbroken 100-run partnership with Dimuth Karunaratne (40* off 90) helped Sri Lanka rebuild steadily on the opening morning of the second Test against New Zealand in Galle.

Opting to bat, the hosts reached 102/1 in 32 overs by lunch, despite a brief rain delay.

The pitch, much drier than the one used in the first Test, offered early turn for New Zealand’s spinners.

The only wicket to fall was Pathum Nissanka, who edged one to the keeper off Tim Southee’s new-ball swing.

Karunaratne survived two close calls—first, a dropped catch by Daryl Mitchell at first slip, and later, a missed stumping by Tom Blundell off Ajaz Patel.

If either of these chances had been taken, New Zealand might have tightened the pressure on Sri Lanka.

Chandimal took the initiative in the partnership, adopting an aggressive approach despite some lucky escapes with mistimed shots and plays-and-misses.

His positive intent unsettled Patel, who struggled to maintain a consistent line despite the turn on offer.

With the surface already showing signs of sharp turn and bounce, New Zealand’s bowlers could pose more significant challenges if they maintain discipline in their lines and lengths.