Sri Lanka had a strong start on the first day of the second Test Match against New Zealand, reaching 211/2 at the close of play. The home side batted first after winning the toss and posted a solid total thanks to half-centuries from Angelo Mathews and Dimuth Karunaratne.
Mathews, who scored 46 runs, and Karunaratne, who contributed 45 runs, formed a crucial partnership of 87 runs for the third wicket. Their solid batting helped Sri Lanka build a strong foundation on a pitch that offered some assistance to the bowlers.
New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to contain the Sri Lankan batsmen, with Glenn Phillips and Ajaz Patel picking up one wicket each. However, the audience will be hoping to make a comeback on day two and restrict Sri Lanka’s lead.
The second Test match is being played at Galle International Stadium from September 26th to 30th.
