Dhananjaya de Silva’s Century Steers Sri Lanka to a Strong Start in Antigua

The opening day of the first Test between Western Australia and Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, showcased high-stakes Test cricket on June 25, 2026. The match unfolded with dramatic shifts in momentum, anchored by a stellar century and resilient bowling. By the close of Day 1, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 308 runs in 71.5 overs, leaving West Indies at 0/0 after a tense final over.

Dhananjaya de Silva’s ton powers Sri Lanka into a strong position against West Indies

Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by a masterclass from their captain, Dhananjaya de Silva. Facing a precarious position early, De Silva delivered a commanding 120 runs from 168 deliveries, featuring 17 boundaries and two sixes to turn the match in his team’s favor.

The Sri Lankan innings began with setbacks. Kemar Roach dismissed Pathum Nissanka for 2 in the first over, followed by Alzarri Joseph taking Nishan Madushka (23) leg-before and Shamar Joseph removing Kamindu Mendis for a duck. Yet De Silva and Dinesh Chandimal stabilized the innings with a 68-run partnership. Chandimal displayed composure with a 54-run half-century (8 fours) before Shamar Joseph broke through. After losing Where in Mendi for a duck, De Silva anchored again, forming a crucial 99-run stand with debutant Sonal Dinusha (43). His innings accelerated to a century off 150 balls, steering Sri Lanka’s recovery.

West Indies restrict Sri Lanka to a formidable score

As Sri Lanka threatened to dominate, West Indies bowlers executed a resilient chase. The breakthrough came via Justin Greaves, who dismissed De Silva at 273/7. De Silva’s dismissal opened the door for West Indies, who defended their total effectively.

Greaves excelled with figures of 3/39 in 11 overs, supported by Kemar Roach (2/32), Alzarri Joseph (2/60), and Shamar Joseph (2/79). Mahendra Rathnayaka (27) and Lahiru Kumara (12*) provided brief resistance before Seales completed the innings by dismissing Fernando.

With a single over remaining, West Indies openers John Campbell and King safely navigated Fernando’s aggressive start. Day 2’s contest will hinge on West Indies’ ability to replicate Sri Lanka’s resilience on Antigua’s pitch.

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