Sri Lanka struggle as Roach strikes

West Indies hold hosts to 84 for three on day one.

COLOMBO: West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach grabbed two quick wickets in a lively opening spell to put Sri Lanka under pressure on the first day of the second Test.

Roach removed openers Tillakaratne Dilshan (four) and Tharanga Paranavitana (16) before the hosts struggled to reach 84 for three in their first innings at stumps on a new pitch helping the fast bowlers. He conceded just 18 runs in his disciplined eight-over opening spell.

Captain Kumar Sangakkara was unbeaten on 25 and Thilan Samaraweera was on 26 not out when bad light stopped play just after tea. Only 37.2 overs were bowled in the day, with no play possible in the morning session due to a wet outfield.

Published in The Express Tribune November 24^th, 2010.