Sooriyabandara Leads Sri Lankan Resistance as India Retains Control of Second Test
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s burgeoning talent, Pavan Sooriyabandara, struck a resilient half-century on the third day of the second Test, offering a glimmer of hope for the hosts as they continue to trail a dominant India.
Play commenced 15 minutes ahead of schedule on Tuesday to compensate for the rain-affected second day, which saw only 56 overs possible. Despite the aggressive approach from the Sri Lankan middle order, the hosts face an uphill battle to recover from a massive first-innings deficit.
Sri Lanka resumed their first innings at 8-2, staring down the barrel of India’s formidable total of 503-9 declared. The hosts were immediately put on the back foot when debutant Kamil Mishara, who had shown promise during his brief stay, edged a delivery from Prasidh Krishna to the wicketkeeper, departing for 19.
However, the innings found stability through a spirited partnership between Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis. The duo put together a vital 87-run stand for the fourth wicket, frustrating the Indian bowling attack. Mendis, who initially appeared tentative, grew in confidence as he navigated the spin threats, though his patience eventually wavered shortly before the lunch interval.
In a tactical pivot, India reverted to pace, and the move paid dividends immediately. Krishna, claiming his third wicket of the innings, induced a loose shot from Mendis, who flicked a delivery straight to short mid-wicket to depart for 32.
At the break, Sooriyabandara stood as the lone anchor for the Sri Lankan effort, unbeaten on 65. Alongside him, Dhananjaya de Silva remained at the crease on four. The team trails India by 373 runs, a margin that highlights the immense pressure remaining in the match.
Sooriyabandara, a consistent performer on the domestic circuit, has looked every bit the part of a Test batsman. The 26-year-old, who famously debuted in the opening match in Galle as a concussion substitute, displayed an impressive range of shots. He combined crisp square drives against the quicks with confident footwork against the Indian spinners, proving he is a vital prospect for Sri Lanka’s future.
As the match progresses, all eyes are on whether Sooriyabandara can convert his gritty start into a maiden Test century to bridge the substantial gap. India, holding a 1-0 lead in the two-match series following their comprehensive 165-run victory in Galle, remains firmly in the driver’s seat. With the pitch expected to offer more assistance to the bowlers as the game wears on, the upcoming sessions will be critical in determining whether India can force a result or if the hosts can engineer a miraculous turnaround.
© 2026 AFP
