Sri Lanka Fights Back as Dinusha Leads Resistance in Colombo Test
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s Sonal Dinusha continued his rich vein of form on Tuesday, anchoring a gritty batting display to keep his side afloat on the third day of the second and final Test against India at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground.
Despite Dinusha’s impressive unbeaten 85, India remains in a dominant position, holding a firm grip on the contest as they look to secure a series sweep. At the close of play, Sri Lanka reached 265-8 before a combination of persistent rain and fading light forced an early conclusion, leaving the hosts trailing India’s mammoth first-innings total of 503-9 declared by 238 runs.
A Masterclass in Consistency
Dinusha, who has emerged as the standout performer for the home side, is currently on track for his second century of the series. His current knock follows a brilliant performance in the opening Test at Galle, where he recorded scores of 100 and 84. His composure at the crease provided a rare highlight for Sri Lanka, as he struck two sixes and six fours, looking largely untroubled by India’s potent attack of both pace and spin.
The Battle for Survival
Resuming the day in a precarious position at 8-2, the Sri Lankan top order faced an uphill battle against the Indian bowling unit. Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who made his Test debut as a concussion substitute in the first match, offered significant resistance with a hard-fought 80.
Sooriyabandara looked poised for a maiden Test century before falling in unfortunate fashion. Attempting a cut shot against Ravindra Jadeja, he deflected the ball off his thigh, which trickled onto the stumps to dislodge the bail—a cruel end to an otherwise disciplined innings.
India’s Clinical Control
India’s bowlers executed their plans with surgical precision throughout the day. Seamer Prasidh Krishna was instrumental in the middle session, claiming 3-47 by dismissing Kamil Mishara and Kamindu Mendis. Spinner Manav Suthar complemented the pace attack, finishing with 3-83, including the prized wicket of Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva.
Mohammed Siraj also contributed to the pressure, dismissing Niroshan Dickwella for a duck, caught down the leg side.
Looking Ahead
With the prospect of the follow-on still looming over them, Sri Lanka faces a critical fourth day. Dinusha remains at the crease alongside Lahiru Kumara, who is unbeaten on eight. While the weather has offered the hosts a temporary reprieve, they will need a substantial partnership from the tail-enders if they hope to avoid a comprehensive defeat and regain some pride in this India in charge series finale.
India currently leads the two-match series 1-0 following their commanding victory in Galle, and they remain the overwhelming favorites to close out the match as play resumes.
