India Enforce Follow-On Against Sri Lanka in 2nd Test

COLOMBO: India captain Shubman Gill enforced the follow-on on Day 4 of the ongoing second Test after Sri Lanka were bowled out for 290 in their first innings at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Wednesday. Trailing India’s declared total of 503/9 by 213 runs, the hosts fell short of the 304-run follow-on threshold, forcing them to bat again under immense pressure.

Resuming the day at 265/8 following an early close due to rain on Day 3, Sri Lanka’s lower order offered early resistance led by Sonal Dinusha, who brought up a gritty century (103). However, off-spinner Saransh Jain struck twice in quick succession to clean up the tail, dismissing Lahiru Kumara for 12 before capturing Dinusha to wrap up the innings. Despite Dinusha’s ton and a notable 80 from debutant Pasindu Sooriyabandara in the middle order, Sri Lanka could not erase the deficit, allowing India to command total control of the match.

Batting for the second time in the test, Sri Lanka’s opening struggles continued as pacer Mohammed Siraj struck early to dismiss Lahiru Udara who fell cheaply for a meagre 3 runs. Later Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Kamil Mishara stiched a solid partnership of 58 (68) by counter-attacking the Indian bowlers. Just when the game was thought to be evenly poised, Jadeja struck back by taking the wicket of Kamil Mishara who had scored 30 of 33 balls. After the play of 20 overs Sri Lanka were struggling at 77/2 still trailing by 134 runs.