Sri Lanka XI captain Sonal Dinusha led from the front with a fighting innings on Day 1 of the practice match against India in Colombo.
The 25-year-old stroked a fluent half-century, making light work of India’s spin challenge to power his side over the 300-run mark. The left-hander has made a lasting impression ahead of the IND vs SL Test series starting on August 15.
Dinusha was given a rude awakening after being welcomed by a barrage of short deliveries by Indian fast bowler Gurnoor Brar. One of those rising deliveries hit him on the arm, leaving him in pain. The physios attended to him forcing a brief stoppage in play.
After receiving treatment, Dinusha made a statement with his gritty knock. The left-hander was competent against both spin and pace, sweeping and cutting at will. He reached his half-century in just 65 balls, stroking five boundaries and a maximum.
Sri Lanka are yet to name their squad for the two-match Test series starting on August 15. Dinusha has made his claim for a place in the squad and will look to add to his three Test caps. He scored 92 against West Indies in July, and is well placed to be named in the squad for the India games.