Friday Sep 18, 2026
Friday Sep 18, 2026
Tuesday, 18 August 2026 10:17 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Sonal Dinusha who scored his maiden Test century and helped Sri Lanka avert the follow-on against India in the first Test at Galle said that he gained confidence while batting with Niroshan Dickwella.
The pair put on a partnership of 146 for the sixth wicket after Sri Lanka had lost half the side for 99 at lunch and saw them post a final total of 284 in reply to India’s 462.
“Even though we were five wickets down we spoke about hitting every ball we could,” said Dinusha at the end of the day.
“It was the first time I played with Dickwella. He played his usual style of play and that gave me confidence. It was great for him to get that kind of score under pressure.”
Dickwella, returning to Test cricket after a lapse of three years went onto score 80, once again missing out on an opportunity to make a maiden Test hundred, and Dinusha made exactly 100.
Sweeps and reverse sweeps kept the Indian bowlers at bay during the partnership and playing against three left-arm spinners also helped in some way, said Dinusha.
“There was a slight advantage there, but they didn’t let us hit easily. Playing in Galle with the ball spinning is something we should expect. Sweeping and playing off the back foot are also important in this circumstance.”
Dinusha said that he had small plans during his innings. “What I did for the most part was to focus more and play to my strengths. I have batted at number 6 or 7 throughout my career and I hope to continue playing as a middle-order batsman.”
Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar who was India’s successful spinner with 4/76 said that he was happy he got a wicket off the first ball.
“Dinesh Chandimal is their most experienced batter so pretty pleased with that. There was a lot of assistance for the spin bowlers, but it was important that we put the ball in the right areas and created opportunities. I thought all the bowlers did a decent job to get ourselves ahead of the game.” [ST]
