Jayawardene celebrates after bringing up his century

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Sri Lanka batsman Mahela Jayawardene scored an stunning unbeaten century to frustrate South Africa after they made early inroads on the first day of the second Test in Colombo.

Jayawardene was well supported by Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews, who made an excellent half-century.

Mathews would have been regretting his decision to bat first after opening batsman Upul Tharanga for caught behind off the bowling of Dale Steyn for just 11 runs.

Steyn struck again the very next ball when Kumar Sangakkara was caught by Imran Tahir at square leg for a golden duck.

Steyn struck twice in two balls

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Kaushal Silva and Jayawardene stabilised the innings with a 99-run partnership, during which Jayawardene brought up his half-century, before Silva was caught by AB de Villiers at slip off the bowling of Jean Paul (JP) Duminy for 44.

Jayawardene and Mathews kept the runs flowing with a 131-run partnership, during which Jaywardene registered his 34th Test century and Mathews his half-century, before Mathews was caught behind off the bowling of Duminy.

Mathews’ brilliant knock of 63 came off 135 balls and included six boundaries.

Kithuruwan Vithage failed to have an impact with the bat as he was caught by de Villiers at third slip off the bowling of Morne Morkel for 13.

Jayawardene and debutant Niroshan Dickwella amassed an unbeaten 20-run partnership before stumps was called.

Jayawardene finished on 140 off 225 balls, which included 16 boundaries and a six, while Dickwella remained undefeated on 12 off 30 deliveries, which included one boundary.

Steyn and Duminy picked up two wickets apiece, while Morkel chipped in with one.

Sri Lanka ended day one on 305/5 and will continue batting tomorrow at 10:00 local time or 04:30 GMT.