COLOMBO — Sri Lanka’s tail-end batters frustrated India on the fourth day of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club, turning what appeared to be a comfortable position for the visitors into a battle for 12 wickets on the final day with a 2-0 series lead at stake.
India, who won the opening Test in Galle by 63 runs, had Sri Lanka reeling at one stage but the home side’s lower order mounted a stubborn rearguard that consumed valuable time and overs. The resistance means India must now bowl Sri Lanka out twice on the fifth day — or force a result through a declaration and chase — to complete the series sweep.
The match has shifted from a seemingly straightforward pursuit to a test of India’s bowling depth and time management on a wearing Colombo surface.
Analysis: India’s spinners, who have dominated the series, will need to find breakthroughs early on the final morning. The pitch is offering increasing turn and variable bounce, which should aid the visitors’ attack, but Sri Lanka’s lower-order batters have shown willingness to occupy the crease. The equation is simple: India require 12 wickets in a minimum of 90 overs, weather permitting. A draw would leave the series at 1-0.
Sources
– Times of India, “India vs Sri Lanka: The good, old grind takes centrestage in Colombo”, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-sri-lanka/india-vs-sri-lanka-the-good-old-grind-takes-centrestage-in-colombo/articleshow/133512788.cms
Corrections
If you believe this article contains an error, contact Herald Express with the source URL and supporting evidence.
Story synopsis gathered from: Times of India – Top Stories — source
