SL vs WI 2nd Test: Openers make a steady start for Sri Lanka

Galle, Nov 29, : Opening batsman Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten run of 61 runs to get Sri Lanka started in a rain-stricken day of the second Test against West Indies at Galle International Stadium on Monday.

Captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Nissanka shared 106 runs for their third Test half-century.As he ran 109 runs, Nissanka seemed more fluent.He reached a six- and four-boundary.

The pitch in Galle has bounce and spin on the first day, but the three West Indies spinners did not take full advantage.Dimuth Karunaratne won earlier the toss, and chose to bat first.

Dushmantha Chameera, Sri Lankas fast bowler, was dropped by Sri Lanka to give Charith Asalanka the opportunity to play his first Test match at his home ground.West Indies saw Rahkeem Cornwall, Shannon Gabriel and Kemar Roach make way for Veerasammy Perrymaul and Kemar Roach.

Pathum Nissanka showed determination from the beginning, hitting a beautiful straight drive past Jason Holder within the second over, and following it up with another boundary against Roach in the third over.The pacers made good use the new ball and conditions early on, creating some half-chances but the openers remained largely untroubled for most of the match.

Karunaratne was cautious with his approach, but Nissanka was dismissive and found the ropes regularly.Permaul was welcomed into the attack by him with a six in his second over.He soon reached his fifty.

The skipper also began to attack the spinners.He smashed Roston Chas for two fours in an out but was caught and bowled off for 42.This ended the 106-run partnership.West Indies also lost some reviews and the wicket didnt offer any chance to the bowlers.

Both teams will keep the rain forecast in mind as they try to devise strategies.The umpires called stumps shortly afterward because of bad light, which caused play to stop for less than 35 overs on the first day.Sri Lanka won the first Test at this same venue by 187 runs.The West Indies must win the second match to draw the series.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 113 (Pathum Niska 61; Roston Chase 3-33) inj/bs #Test #Openers #Lanka.