Kusal Perera’s maiden Test ton helps Sri Lanka dominate Zimbabwe

Kusal Perera’s maiden century, combined with Kaushal Silva’s 94 gave Sri Lanka the advantage over Zimbabwe.

Kusal Perera struck his maiden Test century as Sri Lanka took control of the first Test against Zimbabwe on the opening day at Harare Sports Club.

Kusal Perera’s century helped Sri Lanka get to a strong position on day one of the first Test against Zimbabwe. (AP)

Perera took advantage of two dropped catches to make an attacking 110, while Kaushal Silva scored 94 as Sri Lanka piled up 317 for four after winning the toss and electing to bat on a batsman-friendly surface.

Zimbabwe had hoped to push an under-strength Sri Lankan side in their 100th Test match, and first under new coach Heath Streak, but were instead dogged by familiar problems with their fielding.

Perera survived chances on 15 and 30, while Silva was put down on 89 and fellow opener Dimuth Karunaratne, who made 56, was dropped in the second over of the match.

Zimbabwe did pull things back in the final hour of the day, with leg-spinner Graeme Cremer picking up two wickets to close with figures of 3 for 82.