IND vs SL Test: India in command as Sri Lanka struggle on day three

WEB DESK: India remained firmly in control of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo after declaring their first innings at 503 for 9 on the third day.

Sri Lanka finished the day still 238 runs behind India, with only two wickets remaining, leaving the hosts in a difficult position heading into the fourth day.

Dhruv Jurel was the star of India’s batting performance, remaining unbeaten on an excellent 115. Devdutt Padikkal also played a major role with a brilliant 117, while Rishabh Pant contributed a valuable 63.

Shubman Gill scored a composed 50, while Yashasvi Jaiswal made 45. Ravindra Jadeja also added useful runs with 43, as India’s lower order helped push the total beyond the 500-run mark.

India eventually declared at 503 for 9 after 138 overs, putting Sri Lanka under considerable pressure.

Among Sri Lanka’s bowlers, Asitha Fernando was the most successful, taking four wickets for 106 runs in his 29 overs. Prabath Jayasuriya picked up two wickets, while Keshara Nuwantha also claimed two.

Sri Lanka now face a major challenge on the fourth day. With the hosts still 238 runs behind and only two wickets in hand, India have put themselves in a strong position to take control of the Test.

The focus will now be on whether Sri Lanka can survive the remaining overs or whether India’s bowlers can finish the innings and give the visitors a significant advantage in the match.