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London: Left-handers Kumar Sangakkara and Lahiru Thirimanne rode his luck to score a fine century and virtually assure a first Test cap when Sri Lanka take on England in Southampton next week.
The 21-year-old made 104 with 15 boundaries as the tourists reached 324 for four on a rain-interrupted first day of their three-day match against Essex at Chelmsford.
Sri Lanka need a new opener after skipper Tillakaratne Dilshan broke his thumb when making 193 at Lord's in the drawn second Test at Lord's.
Thirimanne did receive one slice of luck when he was dropped at third slip by Tom Westley when surprised by the additional bounce of left-arm paceman Reece Topley.
It proved a costly miss as Thirimanne found his touch to score freely both sides of the wicket, either side of opening partner Tharanga Paranavitana being caught behind off Tymal Mills.
The first wicket fell at 71 and paved the way for Kumar Sangakkara to inflict further punishment on an inexperienced Essex attack which included Tom Craddock, a 21-year-old leg-spinner on a two-month trial.
Sangakkara reached a half-century with the aid of nine boundaries and shared in a stand of 152 in 36 overs with Thirimanne.
Sangakkara went on to finish the day on 148 not out, striking 23 fours and one six.
Brief scores
Sri Lankans 324 for 4 (Sangakkara 148*, Thirimanne 104)
