Within the aftermath of a difficult first Check match in opposition to England on the Outdated Trafford, Manchester, former Sri Lankan captain Dinesh Chandimal expressed immense satisfaction within the visiting group’s efficiency regardless of a five-wicket loss. The match, which noticed England chase down 205 runs of their second innings, showcased each the strengths and areas for enchancment throughout the Sri Lankan squad.
Dinesh Chandimal phrases it as a rollercoaster of feelings
Chandimal’s post-match feedback highlighted the emotional highs and lows skilled by his group.
“We’re over the moon as a group, not for the outcome however the best way we performed on this sport is unbelievable. Within the first half an hour on the primary day, we misplaced three wickets. Milan [Rathnayake] and Dhananjaya batted brilliantly and took us via the sport,” Chandimal said emphasizing the group’s resilience within the face of adversity.
The match started on a shaky observe for Sri Lanka, shedding three wickets throughout the first half-hour, however the partnership between Milan Rathnayake and Dhananjaya de Silva steadied the ship, permitting the group to recuperate and submit a good first innings complete of 236.
Key performers shine amidst challenges
Reflecting on the batting efficiency, Chandimal praised the efforts of his teammates. The duo’s contributions have been essential in constructing a basis after the preliminary collapse, with Rathnayake scoring 72 runs and de Silva including 74.
Nevertheless, Chandimal acknowledged the necessity for enchancment, significantly from the tailenders, stating, “We actually fought again as a group. We have been in need of 40-50 runs however each time we’re telling this after shedding the sport, we have now to be taught that and particularly our tailenders didn’t contribute that nicely. If they might grasp in there for 10-15 overs, we may have gotten these runs so sadly it didn’t click on.”
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Chandimal seems to be on the bowling brilliance as silver lining
On the bowling entrance, Chandimal was equally effusive in his reward for Asitha Fernando and Prabath Jayasuriya, who each delivered commendable performances all through the innings.
“Once we come to the bowling, Asitha and Prabath have completed an incredible job all through the innings,” he remarked, highlighting their important roles in protecting the sport aggressive.
Asitha’s efforts have been significantly notable, as he took key wickets and demonstrated his potential as a future star for Sri Lanka.
Studying from defeat is a step in direction of enchancment
Regardless of the frustration of the loss, Chandimal remained optimistic in regards to the future.
“We now have quite a lot of constructive stuff so I’m positive we can provide an excellent combat once more at Lord’s and I’m positive we are able to win a sport right here earlier than we return to Sri Lanka,” he asserted.
This constructive mindset is crucial for a group trying to construct momentum and confidence in upcoming matches.
Chandimal acknowledging particular person brilliance
Chandimal additionally took a second to commend the efficiency of debutant Kamindu Mendis, who scored a century in his first Check match.
“He’s unbelievable. First tour to England with the nationwide group, within the first sport scoring a century. It’s an exquisite factor to do, he’s a world class participant so far as I’m involved” Chandimal mentioned, reflecting on Mendis’ exceptional achievement.
Chandimal’s personal expertise of taking two excursions to attain a century in England made Mendis’ feat much more spectacular in his eyes.
“If he can come and play in county cricket for one or two years, it is going to be actually good for him, for his future,” he added, recognizing the potential for development and growth in Mendis’ profession.
Chandimal additionally shared insights into his personal journey, revealing that he had lately handled an harm.
“I had the identical harm six months in the past… hopefully, I’ll be match to play the subsequent sport,” he talked about, demonstrating his dedication to the group and his want to contribute absolutely in future matches.
England getting the perfect out of Sri Lanka
The primary Check match noticed England emerge victorious by 5 wickets. Sri Lanka struggled of their first innings, scoring 236 runs, with notable contributions from Rathnayake and de Silva. England responded with 358 runs, capitalizing on Sri Lanka’s bowling inconsistencies. Of their second innings, Sri Lanka made 326 runs, however England chased down the goal of 205 with relative ease, securing the win.
The match showcased the potential of the Sri Lankan group whereas additionally highlighting areas that require consideration. As they put together for the subsequent problem at Lord’s, the main target shall be on constructing on the positives and addressing the shortcomings recognized throughout this match. Chandimal’s management and the group’s collective spirit shall be essential as they intention for a turnaround in fortunes.
