India Strengthen Grip on Colombo Test as Rain Threatens Victory Push
Sri Lanka were forced to follow on after being dismissed for 290, leaving India with a strong chance of completing a series clean sweep.
Colombo, Aug 27: India moved closer to a series clinching victory over Sri Lanka after taking firm control of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club, but persistent rain continued to cast uncertainty over the outcome.
India had posted 503 for nine declared in their first innings before restricting the hosts to 290. The result left Sri Lanka 213 runs behind and forced Indian captain Shubman Gill to enforce the follow-on.
Prasidh Krishna played a key role with the ball, claiming three wickets as India’s attack maintained pressure on the hosts. Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja also contributed to Sri Lanka’s collapse.
Sri Lanka showed greater resistance during their second innings, with Pasindu Sooriyabandara and other batters attempting to frustrate India’s bowlers. However, India continued to create opportunities and remained firmly in command.
Rain has been a recurring interruption throughout the Colombo Test, with the fourth day’s play also ending earlier than scheduled. Further bad weather on the final day could reduce India’s opportunity to complete the win despite their commanding position.
India lead the two-match series 1-0 after winning the opening Test in Galle and now require only a draw to secure the series.
