Dinesh Chandimal, one of Sri Lanka’s most seasoned batters, showcased his experience and skill with a stunning century on Day 1 of the second Test against New Zealand. Chandimal, known for his resilience, brought up his maiden Test hundred against the Black Caps, adding another memorable knock to his illustrious career.

Dinesh Chandimal’s century brings Sri Lanka to a strong position

The moment came during the 58th over of Sri Lanka’s first innings when Chandimal confidently drove a delivery from Mitchell Santner to long-off, reaching the coveted three-figure mark at the iconic Galle International Stadium.

His celebration was iconic as he stretched his arms wide and smiled with pride before performing a baby cradle gesture, a nod to his growing family. This ton marked Chandimal’s 16th century in Test cricket, a testament to his consistency and class over the years.

Sri Lanka in control after second session

Sri Lanka controlled another session, with only one wicket falling, and even that came as a result of a miscommunication between the batters. Chandimal, in an unfortunate mix-up, ran out Dimuth Karunaratne, who was looking set after scoring a composed 46 from 109 balls. The run-out was a soft dismissal and the only blemish in an otherwise dominant session for Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, Chandimal continued to build on his fine innings, bringing up his century, while Angelo Mathews provided strong support at the other end. Mathews remained unbeaten on 35, and Chandimal on 106, as the pair guided Sri Lanka to a solid position heading into the final session of the day.

Also READ: SL vs NZ: Here’s why New Zealand players are wearing black armbands on Day 1 of the 2nd Test

Here is how fans reacted:

Dinesh Chandimal notches up his 16th Test century, leading the charge for Sri Lanka against New Zealand! Can he convert this into a double hundred? 💪 #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/wWPtBDUtjc

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) September 26, 2024

– 5 Hundreds vs BAN.
– 2 Hundreds vs IND.
– 2 Hundreds vs AUS.
– 2 Hundreds vs WI.
– 1 Hundred vs ENG.
– 1 Hundred vs AFG.
– 1 Hundred vs IRE.
– 1 Hundred vs PAK.
– 1 Hundred vs NZ*.

DINESH CHANDIMAL HAS HIT TEST HUNDREDS AGAINST 9 DIFFERENT NATIONS. 🤯👌 pic.twitter.com/3post0KU5y

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 26, 2024

1️⃣6️⃣th Test hundred for Dinesh Chandimal 💯#cricket #SLvNZ #DineshChandimal #SriLankaCricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/Rp96wHQS81

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) September 26, 2024

Also READ: Martin Guptill predicts New Zealand’s hurdle in India Test series

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.