Introduction
Dinesh Chandimal century vs New Zealand in the second Test at Galle has positioned Sri Lanka in a commanding state after Day 1. Chandimal, known for his resilient batting, produced a masterclass, scoring his 16th Test century.
 His century helped Sri Lanka close the day at a solid 194 for 2, leaving New Zealand struggling to gain control. As the game progresses, Chandimal’s performance could be pivotal in determining the outcome of this crucial Test match. For the complete fixtures and results of the series, check out New Zealand tour of Sri Lanka 2024 Fixtures and Results.
Chandimal’s Form and Impact at Galle
Dinesh Chandimal has been exceptional in Test matches at Galle, one of his favorite grounds. His 106* against New Zealand marks his sixth century at this venue, further cementing his place as a dominant Test batter in Sri Lanka. Batting at No. 3, a spot relatively new for him in Test cricket, Chandimal demonstrated adaptability and technical proficiency, building crucial partnerships with Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews to solidify Sri Lanka’s innings.
To see who else is playing in this exciting series, visit Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Squads. Chandimal’s ability to switch gears across sessions was crucial. In the morning, he played with aggression against New Zealand’s fast bowlers, attacking with confidence and racing to his fifty off 79 balls. Later, after lunch, his approach became more measured as the conditions eased and New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to find breakthroughs.
Key Partnerships that Anchored Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s solid start can be credited to the strong partnerships that Chandimal was involved in. The most notable was the 100-plus stand with Dimuth Karunaratne, who was eventually run-out for 46. Although Karunaratne was not at his fluent best, he played a key role in providing stability at the other end while Chandimal freely scored.
To stay updated on Sri Lanka’s future cricket clashes, visit Sri Lanka Cricket Team’s Upcoming Matches. The post-lunch session saw Chandimal team up with Angelo Mathews in an unbeaten half-century partnership. Despite some fortune early in his innings, Mathews showed the grit and experience to support Chandimal, keeping the momentum in Sri Lanka’s favor.
New Zealand’s Missed Opportunities
New Zealand’s fielding lapses cost them dearly, especially with Karunaratne. The opener was dropped twice before he was eventually run out. Daryl Mitchell dropped a simple chance when Karunaratne was on 5, and later on 17, New Zealand failed to stump him when he missed a big swing against Ajaz Patel. These errors allowed Sri Lanka to pile on the runs with little pressure from New Zealand’s bowlers.
While Tim Southee took the wicket of Pathum Nissanka early in the innings, New Zealand’s spinners, led by Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, couldn’t capitalize on the favorable conditions. Their inability to create consistent pressure allowed Chandimal and Mathews to flourish. New Zealand will be hoping for a better performance in the ongoing New Zealand tour of Sri Lanka 2024.
Chandimal’s Adaptability in Challenging Conditions
The hallmark of Chandimal’s innings was his adaptability. He began his knock with aggressive intent, smashing boundaries on the off side against both pace and spin. His early shots, like the fierce scythe against Southee and the elegant cover drives against O’Rourke, showed his class and confidence at the crease.
Once the New Zealand spinners came into the attack, Chandimal switched to a more cautious approach, preserving his wicket while maintaining a solid strike rate. This adaptability highlights why Chandimal remains one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted batters in Test cricket.
For more insights and match details from the ICC World Test Championship, check out the official ICC World Test Championship page.
Mathews Survives, but New Zealand Struggles
Angelo Mathews also had his share of luck when he was given out caught behind off a no-ball bowled by O’Rourke. That reprieve allowed Mathews to settle into his innings, and while he didn’t score as quickly as Chandimal, his presence at the crease further frustrated New Zealand’s bowlers.
Mathews’ role in the partnership with Chandimal was crucial, as it provided the stability needed to anchor the innings when Karunaratne departed. If this partnership continues to flourish on Day 2, New Zealand’s chances of clawing their way back into the game will become slimmer.
New Zealand’s Bowling Struggles
Despite Tim Southee’s breakthroughs, New Zealand’s bowling attack struggled to create consistent pressure and lacked penetration.The decision to play three spinners, including Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, didn’t pay off as expected. Although the odd ball turned sharply, the overall spin attack lacked consistency, and Sri Lanka was able to accumulate runs with relative ease.
Ajaz Patel, who has had previous success in similar conditions, couldn’t exert the required pressure. Chandimal and Mathews played him with relative ease, often lofting the spinners down the ground whenever they bowled too full.
Share Your Thoughts
Sri Lanka will look to extend their lead on Day 2, with Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews set to resume their innings. With a strong platform already in place, Sri Lanka is in the driver’s seat, but New Zealand has the potential to strike back with quick wickets. Can Chandimal continue his form and lead Sri Lanka to a dominant first-innings total, or will New Zealand find a way to bounce back? Stay tuned as this exciting Test match unfolds!
