Dinesh Chandimal thankful to family, friends for the support in tough times

Sri Lankan batter Dinesh Chandimal has acknowledged the support from friends and family during the uncertainty surrounding his place in the team and helping him get back to form.

Chandimal, fresh off a double hundred against Australia earlier this week, was once again Sri Lanka's best batter in an otherwise ordinary batting performance against Pakistan in the first Test of the two-match series in Galle. The senior batter scored 76 off 115 balls and played a pivotal role in taking Sri Lanka to 222 in their first innings.

Chandimal glad to receive the support

The ex-Sri Lankan skipper's return to form has allowed him to reflect on his struggles. Chandimal said he is glad that he was supported by his family, friends, and others during the difficult times.

"You need help during those tough times. I get a lot of support from my family, my wife, coaches, teammates, and my friends. I am glad I got that. When you are down, you need support like that. If people are criticising, it's difficult. We don't want to fail, and we need support," said Dinesh Chandimal while addressing the media after the opening day's play in Galle.

Test cricket demands mental toughness

The 32-year-old cricketer believes that Test cricket is all about the mental toughness of a player.

"You have got to be mentally strong if you are playing Test cricket. I have been out of the side at times. That makes me stronger. You have to score runs to remain in the side. So I thought about the technique and how to keep myself not distracted and grab the opportunity when it came."

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