IND Vs SL 2nd Test: Dinusha Slams Ton, Indian Bowlers Made To Sweat For Final Wickets

Colombo: In the Test in which India was looking heavy from the beginning, it suddenly changed its complexion on the fifth day. India had declared the first innings at 503/9, in reply Sri Lanka was reduced to just 290 runs and was forced to follow on. But as soon as Sri Lanka came into the second innings, Sonal Dinusha again became the same man who has stunned the Indian bowlers throughout this series, he is unbeaten on 107 runs.

What happened in the first innings?

Early in the morning on the fourth day, India wrapped up the innings by taking both the remaining wickets. Dinusha was out after scoring 103 runs off 162 balls (eight fours, three sixes). Manav Suthar was the most successful with three wickets, Prasidh Krishna also got three wickets. This was Dinusha's third century of this series. He scored 100 and 84 in the first Test and has now become only the second Sri Lankan batsman to score centuries in his first two Tests against India.

How was starting in Follow-On?

Seeing the deficit of 213 runs, Gill imposed follow-on without any delay. When the second innings started, there was some struggle in the beginning, but Sooriyabandra and Kamindu Mendis added 115 runs for the third wicket. Sooriyabandra was just eight runs away from his first Test century when Suthar sent him to the pavilion.

How did the fourth day end?

Rain stopped play early on the fourth day. By then the score was 229/6, lead just 16 runs. Within a few overs, Suthar had removed De Silva and Sooriyabandara, putting the team under pressure.

What changed on the fifth day?

Dinusha once again remained at the crease. Lahiru Kumara played 56 balls and played well. The lead in the morning was 116 runs, by tea time it crossed 170. In this session, only 54 runs were scored and only two wickets fell, which means the match has now become a close one.

Why is this innings special for Dinusha?

Dinusha, who has played 195 balls, is unbeaten on 98 and has hit six fours. Once he completes his century, it will be his fourth century in the series, a rare start for a young batsman. 

What could happen next?

At present everything is open. The lead has crossed 170, at least 38 overs left. If Dinusha and the lower order hold up, then India can get a difficult target; otherwise, the Indian bowlers will want to take quick wickets and take the match in their favour. India's lead in the series is already 1-0, but the decision of this test is yet to be taken.