Sri Lankan cricketer Dinesh Chandimal has finally ended his two-year drought of a Test century against a full-time Test playing nation, scoring his 16th ton against New Zealand on Day 1 of the 2nd Test. This also marks his ninth Test century against a different opposition, solidifying his status as a top-class batsman. However, despite showing glimpses of brilliance in the past, Chandimal has struggled with consistency and was dropped from Sri Lanka's white-ball team in 2022. Despite this, with his latest century, he has once again proven his talent and potential in the longest format of the game.
Dinesh Chandimal's Resurgence: Ending a Two-Year Drought with a Majestic Century
Sri Lanka's Dinesh Chandimal has reclaimed his status as a world-class batsman with a remarkable century against New Zealand in the second Test of their series. The milestone not only broke a two-year drought but also marked his ninth century against a different opposition.
Background
Chandimal, a wicketkeeper-batsman, has been a mainstay of the Sri Lankan team since his debut in 2010. He has amassed over 7,000 runs in Tests, including 16 centuries and 33 fifties. However, in recent years, he has struggled with consistency, leading to his omission from the white-ball team in 2022.
The New Zealand Test
In the ongoing Test against New Zealand, Chandimal batted with a blend of confidence and poise. He weathered the early storm, anchoring Sri Lanka's innings as wickets fell around him. His century, a masterclass in concentration and shot-making, helped Sri Lanka post a respectable total.
Significance of the Century
Chandimal's century is a testament to his resilience and determination. It ends his two-year drought of a century against a full-time Test playing nation and proves that he remains a force to be reckoned with. The milestone also solidifies his place as one of the top batsmen in world cricket.
Top 5 FAQs
Why was Chandimal dropped from the white-ball team?
How long was Chandimal's century drought?
How many centuries has Chandimal scored in Test cricket?
What is Chandimal's highest Test score?
What are Chandimal's strengths as a batsman?
Conclusion
Dinesh Chandimal's century against New Zealand is a reminder of his immense talent and potential. It marks a resurgence in his career and proves that he remains a crucial player for Sri Lanka in the longest format of the game. His experience and ability to consistently perform at the highest level will be invaluable as the team looks to rebuild and regain its lost glory.
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso praised forward Gonzalo García for his performance in their 3-2 victory against Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinal of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup tournament. García, who has four goals in five matches, tied for the top scorer spot with Ángel Di María, Marcos Leonardo, and Serhou Guirassy. Now, with the other three eliminated, García has a chance to definitively hold the title of the tournament's Golden Boot winner.
England's defence of their European Championship title got off to a rough start with a 2-1 defeat to France in their opening match. Despite talk of a "new England" under coach Sarina Wiegman, the team struggled to find momentum and were punished for their lethargy. With a must-win game against the Netherlands looming, the Lionesses will need to shake off their slow start and live up to their predecessors' success.
In a thrilling match, PSG beat Bayern Munich to secure their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The game was tightly contested in the first half, but things took a turn when Bayern's Jamal Musiala collided with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite the tension, PSG managed to score two goals in the second half, securing their win and advancing to the next round. However, there was controversy as one Bayern player criticized Donnarumma for the collision after the game.
In a thrilling Club World Cup quarterfinal match, Real Madrid claimed a 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund thanks to a late goal from Kylian Mbappe. The French forward, who is coming back from a bout of gastroenteritis, scored a stunning bicycle kick in the final minutes to secure the win for Madrid. The match was full of drama, with a missed penalty, a red card, and a last-minute save from Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Madrid will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals.
With the summer transfer window in full swing, Manchester United is making moves to strengthen their team. They have recently announced the signing of Diego Leon and are now locked in battle for Moise Keane with Napoli and Al-Qadsiah. Additionally, the team is looking to bring in Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and are increasing their pursuit of Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo. However, the Bees have warned that Mbeumo will not be leaving unless United meets their valuation. Stay up to date with all of the latest updates on Old Trafford's moves in the Club World Cup on DAZN.
Real Madrid's superstar forward Kylian Mbappe may not be able to play in the team's quarter-final match against Borussia Dortmund. Mbappe has been dealing with gastroenteritis, an infection in the gut, and coach Xabi Alonso says a decision will be made tomorrow on his availability for the game. In the meantime, 21-year-old academy product Gonzalo Garcia has stepped up in Mbappe's absence, delivering impressive performances in the tournament.
In a tense match between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern's Musiala suffered a serious injury after a collision with PSG goalkeeper Donnarumma. Despite a valiant effort from Bayern, goals from Doue and Dembele secured PSG's spot in the Club World Cup semi-finals. The match was also marred by multiple incidents, including two red cards for PSG players.
In an interview after Real Madrid's victory against Pachuca at the Club World Cup, defender Fran García expressed his relief and confidence in the team's progress. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the positives and continuing to work hard towards their goals. Viewers can watch highlights from the match on RM Play.
In a thrilling Group D match at Euro 2025 in Zurich, Sandy Baltimore scored her second goal to give France a commanding 2-0 lead against England. The English team was left rattled as Baltimore's brilliant strike left them with an uphill battle. Despite a valiant effort from England, France ultimately secured the victory. As the tournament continues, BBC Sport will provide extensive coverage, so make sure to follow along for all the action.
Bayern Munich faced a devastating loss in the Club World Cup, but the biggest talking point came when their star, Jamal Musiala, suffered a horrific injury due to a collision with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite a late red card for PSG, Luis Enrique's side secured a spot in the semi-finals of the competition. Musiala is believed to have sustained a fractured tibia and fibula as a result of the incident.