Chandimal’s fluent innings guides Sri Lanka to 87-1 in second Test against Australia

Sri Lanka reaches 87-1 at lunch on day one of the second Test against Australia, thanks to a 64-run partnership for the second wicket.

Sri Lanka Reaches 87-1 at Lunch on Day One

Sri Lanka reached 87-1 at lunch on the opening day of the second Test against Australia, thanks to a strong 64-run partnership for the second wicket. Dinesh Chandimal played confidently to be 35 not out at the break, while Dimuth Karunaratne was unbeaten on 34 in his 100th and final Test.

A Solid Partnership After First-Test Loss

The Sri Lankan second-wicket pair showed better discipline compared to the first Test, where they lost by a huge margin of innings and 242 runs. The partnership helped the team recover after a tough first match.

Dhananjaya de Silva’s Decision to Bat First

Sri Lanka’s captain, Dhananjaya de Silva, won the toss and decided to bat first on a dry pitch. Australia began with left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann and Mitchell Starc using the new ball. But it was Nathan Lyon, the veteran off-spinner, who got the only breakthrough before lunch, dismissing Pathum Nissanka for 11 after sneaking one past his legs.

Chandimal’s Confident Knock

Chandimal walked in with a strong mindset, taking control of the innings with good footwork and solid defense. The number three batsman played aggressively, hitting two fours and a six, and looked in charge of the session.

Karunaratne’s Effort in His Final Test

Karunaratne, in his 100th and final Test, didn’t look at his best and was a bit shaky at times. However, he managed to hit three fours in his 34 runs.

Sri Lanka Makes Changes After Heavy Loss

Sri Lanka made three changes to the team after their heavy defeat in the first Test. Nissanka, Lahiru Kumara, and Ramesh Mendis were brought in, while Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, and Oshada Fernando were dropped.

Australia Gives Debut to Cooper Connolly

Australia introduced 21-year-old all-rounder Cooper Connolly, who can bat in the lower middle order and bowl left-arm spin. Off-spinner Todd Murphy was left out from the side that won the first Test.

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