14 August 2016 03:10 pm
Chandimal's overnight partner Dhananjaya de Silva advanced from 116 to 129 before falling in the first hour, but not before the pair had rescued the innings with a 211-run partnership.
Their sixth-wicket stand lifted Sri Lanka from a precarious 26 for five to a position of strength at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground, as the hosts look to complete a 3-0 series whitewash.
Chandimal top-scored with a gritty 132 before being caught behind off Mitchell Starc, who took five wickets, as the Sri Lankan innings folded in the afternoon session.
Chandimal, who recorded his seventh Test ton, put together another crucial 73-run partnership with Rangana Herath, who made a brave 33 before being retired hurt.(AFP)