Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the thumb by a bouncer from England’s fast bowler, Mark Wood. Chandimal, who was on 10 at the time, faced a sharp, rising delivery from Wood at 143 kph during the ongoing first Test between England and Sri Lanka at Old Trafford.
The physio was promptly called onto the field as Chandimal appeared in visible pain, clutching his right thumb and index finger. Despite efforts to assess and alleviate his discomfort, the swelling on his thumb worsened, and Chandimal, realizing he could no longer continue, walked back to the pavilion. His exit marks a significant blow to Sri Lanka, as Chandimal is a key figure in their batting lineup.
The incident highlights the threat posed by Wood’s pace and bounce, which has often troubled batsmen at the international level. Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne took to the field following Chandimal’s departure, hoping to steady the innings. Jamie Smith’s maiden Test century was a highlight, propelling England to a 122-run lead on day three. Smith, playing in only his fourth Test since debuting against the West Indies, reached a composed 111 off 148 balls. This achievement made him the youngest wicketkeeper to score a Test hundred for England. His celebration was modest, acknowledging the crowd with a brief raising of his bat.
England, resuming the day at 25 for 6, saw Smith and Gus Atkinson at the crease. After Atkinson fell for 20 to debutant fast bowler Milan Rathnayake, Smith followed shortly after, caught behind by Chandimal off the bowling of Prabath Jayasuriya. England’s tail-enders, Mark Wood and Matthew Potts, added some quick runs before Asitha Fernando and Vishwa Fernando wrapped up the innings, dismissing England for 358.
Sri Lanka’s innings got off to a disastrous start, losing two wickets before lunch. Nishan Madushka was bowled for a duck by Chris Woakes, and Kusal Mendis fell to Atkinson, caught behind by Smith. With Sri Lanka struggling at 10 for 2, Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews will have a tough job ahead as they look to salvage their innings and put pressure back on England.
Source Agencies
