In an intense Test match between England and Sri Lanka at Old Trafford, Manchester, the third day witnessed a heartbreaking incident that left fans and players alike stunned. A Sri Lankan batsman suffered a serious injury during the game, forcing him to leave the field in the middle of the match. This incident took place during the 18th over of Sri Lanka’s second innings.
Serious Injury to Sri Lankan Player
Sri Lanka’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Dinesh Chandimal, faced a critical injury while batting in the second innings. He was struck on the thumb by a vicious bouncer bowled by England’s fast bowler, Mark Wood. Chandimal seemed unprepared for the delivery, which led to the ball making direct contact with his thumb. Following the impact, it became evident that he was in significant pain as the swelling on his right thumb and index finger increased. The team’s physio was promptly called onto the field to attend to him, but regrettably, Chandimal could not continue and had to retire hurt.
Details of the Incident
When Dinesh Chandimal left the field, he had scored just 10 runs. According to media reports, he was taken to the hospital for scans due to the severity of his injury. Fortunately, initial x-rays indicated that there were no fractures, which raises hopes for a swift return to action for the player.
England’s Strong Position
Prior to this incident, Sri Lanka had managed only 236 runs in their first innings. In reply, England showcased their batting prowess by amassing 358 runs. Notably, on the second day of the match, young wicketkeeper-batsman Jamie Smith delivered a phenomenal performance, scoring a remarkable century at just 24 years and 42 days old, making him the youngest wicketkeeper to achieve this milestone for England. His impressive total of 111 runs played a crucial role in giving England a 122-run lead in the match.
Match Summary Table
| Team | 1st Innings | 2nd Innings (Current) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | 236 | – | Retired Hurt: Dinesh Chandimal |
| England | 358 | – | Leading by 122 runs |
The match continues to unfold as both teams fight for supremacy, but the incident involving Dinesh Chandimal serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cricket and the inherent risks that come with the game.
