Sri Lanka staged a commendable fightback, dismissing Afghanistan for 198 on day one of the one-off Test at the Singhalese Sports Club (SSC), finishing the day's play.
Left-arm fast bowler Vishwa Fernando spearheaded the Sri Lankan attack, claiming four crucial wickets for 51 runs, including opener Noor Ali and three middle-order batsmen.
Besides, right-arm fast bowler Asitha Fernando and left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya contributed with three wickets each, as Afghanistan stumbled, losing their last six wickets for a mere 43 runs. Despite Rahmat Shah's valiant 91, Afghanistan struggled to muster significant partnerships.
In a surprising move, Dhananjaya de Silva, leading Sri Lanka in his maiden Test as captain, elected to bowl first at the traditionally bat-friendly SSC. This decision, influenced by the green-top pitch and the inclusion of debutant Chamika Gunasekera, underscored a strategic departure from convention.
Initially, Sri Lanka's decision seemed vindicated when Asitha Fernando claimed opener Ibrahim Zadran's wicket on only the second ball of the innings. However, occasional bowling lapses coupled with the pitch offering less assistance than anticipated allowed Afghanistan to reach lunch at a steady 90 for 2
