India closed in on a commanding series sweep on Day 4 of the second Test in Colombo. Captain Shubman Gill enforced the follow-on after bowling out Sri Lanka for 290 in their first innings. Indian bowlers struck crucial late blows in the final session, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 229/6. The hosts lead by just 16 runs before sudden tropical rain forced early stumps.
Dinusha Fights to Maiden Century Before India Enforce Follow-On
Sri Lanka resumed their first innings in the morning under heavy pressure. Overnight batter Sonal Dinusha batted with remarkable composure. He completed a fighting maiden Test century, scoring 103 valuable runs.
However, debutant off-spinner Saransh Jain cleaned up the tail efficiently. Sri Lanka folded for 290, handing India a massive 213-run first-innings advantage. Gill immediately asked the hosts to bat again.
Sooriyabandara and Mendis Lead Gritty Sri Lankan Resistance
Trailing significantly, Sri Lanka lost early wickets in their second innings. However, Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis mounted a spirited fightback.
Both batters notched resilient half-centuries on a deteriorating pitch. They shared a century stand to wipe out the entire deficit.
Their partnership frustrated the Indian attack across the middle session. The pair carried the home team to 199/3 by the tea break.
Spinners Strike Late Before Colombo Downpour Halts Play
Indian spinners bounced back strongly in the final session. Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar broke the dangerous partnership with sharp turn.
Saransh Jain and Ravindra Jadeja quickly claimed two more wickets in quick succession. The collapse reduced Sri Lanka from 208/3 to 229/6 in just a few overs.
Dark monsoon clouds then rolled over the Sinhalese Sports Club ground. Heavy showers halted play 45 minutes before the scheduled close.
High-Stakes Final Day for a 2-0 Series Sweep
India enter the final day in complete control of the second Test. The visitors need just four wickets to wrap up Sri Lanka’s second innings. India will likely face a modest fourth-innings chase to clinch victory.
Sri Lanka’s lower order must bat deep into Day 5 to force an unlikely draw. Weather forecasts predict possible afternoon showers, setting up a thrilling finish in Colombo.
Curated news reports, in-depth analysis, and special features by India’s Opinion editorial team.
