India Inches Closer to Victory as Sri Lanka Battles for Survival in Thrilling Test
Galle, Sri Lanka – India stands just four wickets away from a convincing victory against Sri Lanka in a captivating Test match, as the hosts, chasing a monumental target of 372, fought valiantly to reach 197 for six at lunch on the final day. A resilient Sonal Dinusha, fresh off a maiden Test century in the first innings, was anchoring Sri Lanka’s resistance, unbeaten on 65, alongside Keshara Nuwantha (8).
Resuming the day at a precarious 84 for four, Sri Lanka’s hopes largely rested on the shoulders of captain Dhananjaya de Silva and the tenacious Dinusha. The pair displayed immense grit, forging a crucial 95-run fifth-wicket partnership that spanned over two hours and offered a glimmer of hope to the home side. De Silva, demonstrating admirable composure, contributed 59 runs from 151 deliveries, featuring seven well-struck boundaries.
However, India’s relentless pressure eventually bore fruit. The breakthrough came when De Silva, attempting a sweep shot off the wily Ravindra Jadeja, misjudged the delivery and offered a top edge that was smartly caught at short fine-leg by Manav Suthar, bringing an end to his defiant innings.
The Indian bowlers continued to press, and their perseverance was rewarded shortly after when pace sensation Prasidh Krishna induced an edge from wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught behind for 10 runs. This double blow reignited India’s charge towards victory, leaving Sri Lanka teetering on the brink.
Despite the mounting pressure, the 25-year-old Dinusha remained steadfast at the crease. His impressive footwork and skillful handling of India’s potent spin attack were evident throughout his innings. He brought up his half-century in style, dispatching a delivery from Kuldeep Yadav for a six, a testament to his confidence and ability to counter-attack.
With 197 runs still required for an unlikely victory and only four wickets in hand, Sri Lanka faces an uphill battle. The final session promises to be a thrilling contest between India’s determined bowlers and the unwavering spirit of Sonal Dinusha, who will be instrumental if Sri Lanka is to salvage a draw or, against all odds, chase down the improbable target. The cricketing world watches keenly to see if India can seal their well-deserved triumph or if Sri Lanka can conjure a miraculous escape.
© 2026 AFP
