Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews orchestrated a historic 232-run partnership for the fourth wicket on the second day of Sri Lanka's one-off Test against Afghanistan in Colombo.
The day concluded with Sri Lanka firmly in control, leading by 212 runs with four wickets remaining.
Angelo Mathews, who contributed a stellar 141 runs, reached his 16th Test century first, while Chandimal, who notched up his 15th Test century with 107 runs, also played a pivotal role in the record-breaking partnership.
Their collaboration surpassed a 32-year-old record held by Arjuna Ranatunga and Asanka Gurusinha at the Sinhalese Sports Club.
Facing a challenging situation with three early wickets falling in the morning session and a deficit of 50 runs, Mathews and Chandimal navigated through the Afghan bowling attack, showcasing their experience and composure.
The pitch, initially favouring spinners, had flattened out, making it easier for batting.
Despite the success of the partnership, Mathews faced an anticlimactic dismissal as he lost balance while hitting a full toss, resulting in a hit-wicket dismissal.
His innings, however, exceeded his previous best in Sri Lanka, a 122 against Pakistan in 2015. Chandimal's century came to an end after 62 overs when he was caught behind by Naveed Zadran.
The day witnessed a run-out for new captain Dhananjaya de Silva, who fell short of the crease while attempting a quick single.
Afghanistan managed to take three wickets before lunch on the second day, disrupting Sri Lanka's progress.
Earlier in the match, Afghanistan had been bowled out for 198 on the first day after being put to bat by the hosts. As Sri Lanka holds a commanding position, veteran opener Dimuth Karunaratne expressed the team's intention to capitalise on the advantage in the remaining three days of the game.
