SL vs AUS: Dinesh Chandimal becomes first Sri Lankan to score a double century against Australia

Dinesh Chandimal outclassed the Australian bowling attack as he smashed an unbeaten knock of 206 runs in the first innings of the second Test. The experienced batter became the first Sri Lankan batter to register a double hundred against Australia in Test Cricket. 

Chandimal’s magnificent knock helped the hosts claim a massive 190-run lead in the first innings. Coming into bat at number five, Chandimal lasted more than 115 overs. He was well supported in the middle by Angelo Matthews and Kamindu Mendis.

Kamindu Mendis added 61 runs to Sri Lanka’s total, as Chandimal and Mendis put on 133 runs for the fifth wicket. After losing Maheesh Theekshana in the second over on Day four, Chandimal switched gears and targeted the Australian pacers. 

The previous highest score by a Sri Lankan batter against Australia in red-ball cricket was Kumar Sangakkara’s knock of 192 at Hobart. However, Chandimal went past his former teammate’s score, scoring a memorable knock in front of the home fans in Galle. He smashed 16 boundaries and cleared the fence on five occasions. 

Chandimal brought up his maiden double century in Test cricket by swatting Starc for a maximum over the mid-wicket region.

Australia have a massive challenge on their hands if they are to avoid defeat in the second Test. The home side’s spin attack will be eager to dismantle the Australian batting order again.