WATCH: Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Sadeera Samarawickrama makes a sensational grab during 1st Test match against Afghanistan

Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Sadeera Samarawickrama showcased exceptional skills behind the stumps during the one-off Test match against Afghanistan in Colombo. The highlight moment it occurred when Afghanistan’s number-three batsman, Rahmat Shah, seemed poised to achieve a rare Test century. Shah, having formed solid partnerships with Noor Ali Zadran and Hashmatullah Shahidi, was firmly anchoring Afghanistan’s innings.

In a surprising turn of events, Shah attempted a paddle sweep against Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya. However, Samarawickrama’s quick reflexes and agile movement towards leg slip resulted in a sensational catch, abruptly halting Shah’s innings at an impressive 91. This crucial breakthrough left Afghanistan struggling at 155-5 in the afternoon session.

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The Sri Lankan captain, Dhananjaya de Silva, had earlier elected to put Afghanistan in to bat after winning the toss. The decision proved fruitful, as Ibrahim Zadran fell for a two-ball duck in the opening over. Despite confident starts from Noor Ali Zadran and skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, they failed to capitalise on their innings.

Sri Lanka grips the match with Sadeera Samarawickrama’s catch

Spinner Prabath Jayasuriya contributed significantly by dismissing Rahmat Shah and accounting for Nasir Jamal’s wicket, who was dismissed for a duck. The pacers also made valuable contributions, with Vishwa Fernando claiming four wickets in his spell, while Asitha Fernando chipped in with a wicket.

At the end of the first day’s game, Afghanistan got bundled up for 198 runs in the first inning. In response, Sri Lanka finished the day with 80 runs on the board without losing a single wicket. Samarawickrama’s remarkable catch, however, became a turning point, denting Afghanistan’s progress in the Test match.

As the day concluded, Sri Lanka had asserted dominance, with their bowlers creating significant disruptions in Afghanistan’s batting lineup. The match promises further intriguing moments as both teams look to assert their dominance in the remaining days of the contest.