Sri Lanka dominated opening day of the second Test against the West Indies at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, powered by a magnificent century from their opener Lahiru Udara. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, the visitors capitalized on excellent batting conditions to finish the day at a commanding 338 for 5.
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| Image Credits: ESPN Cricinfo |
The day undoubtedly belonged to the Sri Lankan opener, who
anchored the innings with a brilliant, aggressive knock of 188 runs. Facing 248
deliveries, the opener took the West Indian bowling attack apart, smashing 21 fours
and 5 sixes before finally missing out on what would have been a well-deserved
double century.
While Nishan Madushka (6) and Dinesh Chandimal (1) fell
early, Udara found an excellent partner in Kamindu Mendis. Mendis played a
stellar supporting role, frustrating the hosts with a fluent 84 off 120 balls,
including 11 fours. Together, the pair completely shifted the momentum in Sri
Lanka's favor. Contributions from the middle order batters further solidified
the visitor's stronghold in this Test match.
It was a tough day in the field for the West Indies bowlers
with runs flowing at a much faster rate. Shamar Joseph was the pick of the home
attack with 2 wickets, while Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, and Justin Greaves
picked up one wicket apiece.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka made 338/5 (Lahiru Udana –
188, Kamindu Mendis - 84) at stumps on Day 1
