India Posts 460 for 9 as Nuwantha Shines on Second Test Day
India concluded their first innings at 460 for 9 on a rain-affected day, with Devdutt Padikkal making a significant contribution, converting his overnight score of 131 to 167. Dhruv Jurel added a quiet but vital 51, as India faced challenging conditions yet again, with only 43 overs playable due to rain interruptions.
On his second day of Test cricket, Sri Lanka’s Keshara Nuwantha improved his performance by taking three wickets, including three of the first four batsmen to fall on the day. He delivered an impressive unbroken 16-over spell before Prabath Jayasuriya added three wickets to his tally.
Resuming play at 288 for 2, India appeared aggressive as Rishabh Pant struck a four off the first ball he faced. However, he quickly succumbed to a catch at wide mid-off, mirroring the earlier dismissal of Shubman Gill, indicating India’s intent to capitalize on their good start without wasting time.
Sri Lanka’s turning point came shortly after claiming the second new ball seven overs into the day. Nuwantha, taking advantage of this opportunity, showcased sharp turn and accuracy, dismissing KL Rahul caught at bat-pad and trapping Ravindra Jadeja LBW.
Padikkal, unfazed, continued his aggressive approach, using his crease depth effectively against spin, and reached his 150 mark with a casual flick off Asitha Fernando. However, Jayasuriya managed to trap him with a delivery that found its line perfectly.
At 377 for 6, Sri Lanka’s hopes of restricting India further diminished as Jurel and Manav Suthar formed a 55-run partnership. Jurel reached his fifty with a quick single, and his two commanding pulls for fours off Lahiru Kumara were standout moments in his innings.
Jayauriya’s impressive delivery led to a spectacular slip catch by Dhananjaya de Silva shortly after Jurel’s milestone. India then sent out Mohammed Siraj in search of rapid runs; he hit Nuwantha for a six before falling to a slower delivery from Asitha. Suthar followed up, getting out to Jayasuriya as the day drew to a close.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
