During the one-off Test match between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo on February 3, Saturday, an unexpected visitor caused a brief interruption in play. In an unusual turn of events during Day 2, a monitor lizard ventured onto the field, crossing the boundary line during the 47th over.
This surprise appearance startled both players and umpires, leading to a temporary halt in the match as fielders along the boundary ropes complained of a break in concentration. The uninvited guest was swiftly removed from the field, and play resumed. This incident marked another quirky interruption in the world of cricket, where various unforeseen reasons have halted matches in the past.
Sri Lanka had won the toss on Day 1, choosing to bowl first. The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghanistan side posted a total of 198 runs, with Rahmat being the top scorer at 91. Sri Lanka’s wicket-keeper, Sadeera Samarawickrama, showcased exceptional skills with a stunning catch behind the wickets to dismiss Rahmat in the nervous nineties.
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Earlier snakes and now a monitor lizard.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 3, 2024
– Sri Lanka is the home of uninvited guests on the field. 🥶pic.twitter.com/3uG8Hfs2L6
In response, Sri Lankan openers Nishan Madushka and Dimuth Krunaratne formed a formidable 93-run partnership. Despite losing Kusal Mendis early at 10, Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal took charge, building a 200-plus run partnership and securing centuries for themselves. This commanding performance has placed Sri Lanka in a favourable position on Day 2 of the Test match, surpassing Afghanistan’s first innings total and heading towards a substantial lead.
Afghanistan, relatively new to Test cricket, faced challenges in adapting to the longer format. Of the seven Tests played by Afghanistan, they have secured victory in only one match against Zimbabwe. As the match progresses, Sri Lanka appears to be in control, while Afghanistan strives to make a mark in the challenging Test arena.
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