India 460/9: Now It Is the Indian Bowlers’ Turn to Take the Test to Sri Lanka
Galle: India finished the second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at 460 for nine in their first innings on Sunday, despite an impressive performance by the Sri Lankan spinners. Kuldeep Yadav was unbeaten on 12, while Prasidh Krishna was batting on one. Sri Lanka’s spin duo of Prabath Jayasuriya (4/109) and Keshara Nuwantha (3/175) shared seven wickets between them.
If rain stays away on Monday, India’s bowlers will now look to restrict the hosts’ batters and put them under pressure for a follow-on. Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj and the three spinners — Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar — will be the key bowlers for India.
Rain and Poor Light Delay Start
Play on the second day began four and a half hours late on Sunday due to rain and bad light. Rishabh Pant was dismissed for 39 off 62 balls, including one six and four fours, in the 81st over. At that stage, KL Rahul, who had retired hurt on Saturday after suffering a muscle strain, returned to the crease.
However, Rahul added only five more runs before he was caught at short leg for 82. Centurion Devdutt Padikkal was then joined by Dhruv Jurel, who had just begun to settle in after scoring 51 off 68 balls, with one six and four fours. But Padikkal, who scored an outstanding 167 off 230 balls with one six and 15 fours, was eventually stumped by wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella.
The half-century was the second of Dhruv Jurel’s Test career.
Jadeja and Suthar Need to Deliver with the Ball
Ravindra Jadeja scored 13, while Manav Suthar contributed 24. Their batting contributions were modest, but on Monday they will have a major role to play with the ball as India look to put Sri Lanka’s batters under pressure with their spin attack.
Rain Could Have the Final Say
With rain forecast for Sunday night and Monday morning, it would not be surprising if play is delayed once again. In fact, rain has been forecast through Wednesday, the scheduled final day of the match.
With the weather continuing to threaten the game, it is difficult to predict whether the Test will end in a draw or whether India will have enough time to push for victory.
Also Read – 2027 ODI World Cup to Begin on Gandhi Jayanti? ICC May Have a Special Plan in Mind